GENERIC NAME: ETHACRYNATE SODIUM - INJECTION (eth-uh-CRY-nate SO-dee-um)

BRAND NAME(S): Edecrin

Warning | Medication Uses | How To Use | Side Effects | Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes | Missed Dose | Storage | Medical Alert

WARNING: This is a powerful fluid-reducing drug. Using too much of this drug can lead to serious water and mineral loss. Therefore, it is important you be monitored by your doctor. Promptly notify your doctor if you become very thirsty, have a dry mouth, become confused, or develop muscle cramps/weakness.

USES: This drug is a diuretic. Diuretics decrease the amount of water retained in the body by increasing urination. This drug is used to treat fluid retention of the lungs or swelling of the hands or feet (edema) and high blood pressure.

HOW TO USE: This drug is given by injection into a vein (IV). Inspect the container before using. If it is discolored, has particles or has a hazy appearance, discard it and use another. If this medication is used in the late afternoon or evening, you may need to urinate during the night. Consult your doctor regarding your dosing schedule.

SIDE EFFECTS: This drug may cause dizziness and lightheadedness especially during the first few days as your body adjusts to it. Rise slowly from a seated or lying position. Blurred vision, loss of appetite, itching, stomach upset, headache, or weakness may also occur during initial therapy as your body adjusts to the medication. Inform your doctor if you develop: muscle cramps, pain, nausea, vomiting, hearing difficulty. This medication increases urination. Expect this effect. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

PRECAUTIONS: Before using this drug, tell your doctor your medical history especially: kidney problems, unusual decrease in urine output, liver disease, any drug allergies. This drug can reduce the potassium levels in your blood. A potassium supplement may be prescribed by your doctor. Before using this drug, tell your doctor if you are pregnant. It is not known if this drug is excreted into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

Report Problems to the Food and Drug Administration   You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit the FDA MedWatch website or call 1-800-FDA-1088. Need help identifying pills and medications? Use the pill identifier tool on RxList.