triamterene - oral, Dyrenium
GENERIC NAME: TRIAMTERENE - ORAL (trye-AM-ter-een)
BRAND NAME(S): Dyrenium
Warning |
Medication Uses | How To Use | Side Effects |
Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes |
Missed Dose | Storage
WARNING: This medication can raise your body's potassium levels. This effect is more likely to occur in the elderly and in patients with kidney disease, diabetes, or 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. If you develop any of the following symptoms, tell your doctor immediately: muscle weakness, slow/irregular heartbeat.
USES: Triamterene is used to reduce extra fluid in the body (edema) caused by conditions such as congestive heart failure, liver disease, and kidney disease. Getting rid of extra water helps to reduce fluid in the lungs so that you can breathe easier. It also helps to decrease swelling of the arms, legs, and stomach/abdomen.Triamterene is a certain kind of "water pill" (potassium-sparing diuretic). It works by increasing the amount of urine you make, allowing your body to get rid of extra salt (sodium) and water while also preventing the kidneys from getting rid of too much potassium.OTHER This section contains uses of this drug that are not listed in the approved professional labeling for the drug but that may be prescribed by your health care professional. Use this drug for a condition that is listed in this section only if it has been so prescribed by your health care professional.This drug may also be used with other medications to treat high blood pressure. Lowering high blood pressure helps prevent strokes, heart attacks, and kidney problems.
HOW TO USE: Take this medication by mouth after meals to reduce stomach upset, usually once or twice daily or as directed by your doctor. It is best to avoid taking this medication within 4 hours of your bedtime to avoid having to get up to urinate. Consult your doctor or pharmacist if you have questions about your dosing schedule.The dosage is based on your medical condition and response to therapy. For the treatment of edema, do not take more than 300 milligrams daily. For the treatment of high blood pressure in adults, the recommended maximum daily dose is 100 milligrams, especially if taking triamterene with other medications for this condition.This drug may increase the potassium levels in your blood. Consult your doctor or pharmacist before using any products containing potassium (e.g., potassium supplements such as potassium chloride, salt substitutes). Do not increase the amount of potassium in your diet (e.g., bananas, orange juice) unless approved by your doctor.Use this medication regularly in order to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, take it at the same time(s) each day. It is important to continue taking this medication even if you feel well. Most people with high blood pressure do not feel sick. It may take up to several weeks before the full benefit of this drug takes effect.Do not stop taking this medication without first consulting your doctor. Some conditions may become worse when the drug is abruptly stopped. Your dose may need to be gradually decreased.Inform your doctor if your condition does not improve or if it worsens (e.g., swelling increases, your routine blood pressure readings increase).
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.
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