Amiloride
Warning
This medication can cause high potassium levels (hyperkalemia). This effect is more likely to occur in older adults and in patients with kidney disease, diabetes, or a serious illness. Potassium levels must be closely monitored on a regular basis while taking this medication. If not treated, very high potassium levels can sometimes be fatal. Tell your doctor right away if you develop any symptoms of high potassium levels, including muscle weakness, slow/irregular heartbeat, numb/tingling skin.
Precautions
See Also Warning section.
Before taking amiloride, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.
Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: untreated salt/mineral imbalance (such as high potassium, low sodium level), kidney disease, liver disease, diabetes, dehydration.
Before having surgery, tell your doctor or dentist about all the products you use (including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products).
This drug may make you dizzy. Alcohol or marijuana (cannabis) can make you more dizzy. Do not drive, use machinery, or do anything that needs alertness until you can do it safely. Limit alcoholic beverages. Talk to your doctor if you are using marijuana (cannabis).
Severe sweating, diarrhea, or vomiting may cause dehydration and cause you to feel lightheaded. Tell your doctor if you have severe diarrhea or vomiting. To prevent dehydration, drink plenty of fluids unless your doctor tells you not to.
This drug may increase the potassium levels in your blood. Limit foods high in potassium such as bananas and orange juice. Consult your doctor or pharmacist before using any products containing potassium (such as potassium supplements, salt substitutes).
During pregnancy, this medication should be used only when clearly needed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.
It is unknown if this drug passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding.
Side Effects
See also Warning section.
Headache, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, stomach/abdominal pain, gas, or diarrhea may occur. If any of these effects last or get worse, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly.
Remember that this medication has been prescribed because your doctor has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.
When given with other diuretics, this medication may cause dehydration and electrolyte imbalance. Tell your doctor right away if you have any symptoms of dehydration or electrolyte imbalance, including unusual dry mouth/thirst, muscle cramps/weakness, slow/fast/irregular heartbeat, or confusion.
Tell your doctor right away if you have any serious side effects, including: fainting, signs of liver problems (such as nausea/vomiting that doesn't stop, yellowing eyes/skin, dark urine), signs of kidney problems (such as change in the amount of urine).
A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing.
This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
In the US -
Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or at www.fda.gov/medwatch.
In Canada - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.
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