Description
How it works
Furosemide: Furosemide is a short-acting diuretic; diuresis usually commences within one hour and lasts for four to six hours. Spironolactone: Spironolactone, a competitive inhibitor of aldosterone, increases sodium excretion whilst reducing potassium loss at the distal renal tubule. It has a slow and prolonged action; maximum response being usually attained after 2 – 3 days treatment.
Side Effects
Patients taking this medicine may experience gynaecomastia(hormone imbalance), GI upset (upset stomach), rash, drowsiness, headache, or confusion. Please consult your doctor if you experience any of these symptoms.
Drug Interactions
Potassium supplements such as potassium chloride or certain water tablets (diuretics) such as triamterene and amiloride , ramipril, enalapril, perindopril (called ‘ACE inhibitors’) or losartan, candesartan, irbesartan , Theophylline , Phenytoin , Trimethoprim and trimethoprimsulfamethoxazole , Lithium , Cisplatin , Digoxin , aspirin, ibuprofen, ketoprofen or indometacin , Carbamazepine , Aminoglutethimide , Ciclosporin , Methotrexate , Carbenoxolone , Corticosteroids , Probenecid , Cholestyramine , gentamicin, amikacin, neomycin, netilmicin, tobramycin, vancomycin or high doses of cephalosporins , salbutamol, terbutaline sulphate, salmeterol, formoterol or bambuterol) , Reboxetine , Amphotericin , bisacodyl or senna , Liquorice .
Indication
It is indicated in the treatment of resistant oedema where this is associated with secondary hyperaldosteronism; conditions include chronic congestive cardiac failure and hepatic cirrhosis .
When not to Use
You are allergic (hypersensitive) to furosemide, spironolactone or any of the other ingredients. Signs of an allergic reaction include: a rash, swallowing or breathing problems, swelling of your lips, face, throat or tongue. You are allergic to sulphonamides such as sulfadiazine or co-trimoxazole. • You have severe problems with your kidneys. • You have severe liver problems. • Your doctor has told you that you have a low blood volume or are dehydrated.
Contraindications
Please consult your doctor before taking this medicine if you have anuria (kidneys unable to produce urine), renal failure (kidney disorder) or hyperkalaemia(high level of potassium).
