Diurisa (amiloride, furosemide) is a diuretic medication which encourages the body to expel excess water through urine. It is typically used for the treatment of hypertension and retention of fluids caused by congestive heart failure, liver disease, or kidney disease.

The medication contains two active ingredients:

• Amiloride is a potassium-sparing diuretic which increases the amount of sodium expelled in urine while decreasing the amount of potassium expelled.
• Furosemide is a loop diuretic which also encourages the expulsion of salt, but does not inhibit release of potassium. Combining it with a potassium-sparing diuretic like amiloride helps ensure potassium levels will not become too low.

Diurisa is an effective medication; in fact it's the first-line treatment in those with edema caused by congestive heart failure. It is also used in treating cerebral or pulmonary edema as well as severe hypercalcemia.

Diurisa should not be used in patients under 18 years of age. This medication is also known by the brand name Amifru and the non-proprietary name co-amilofruse.

Taking Diurisa

Treatment will need to be individualized to some extent, particularly in more serious conditions like heart failure, for which other medications are also likely being taken. Individual response to treatment can vary to some extent as well, so it may take a few dosage adjustments to determine the best dose.

The medication comes in tablets, each of which contains a small dose of amiloride and a larger dose of furosemide, available in strengths of 2.5/20mg, 5/40mg, and 10/80mg. Tablets may be taken once or twice per day, depending on dosage and response to treatment; some individuals have better results if dividing a single large dose into two smaller doses. Tablets should be taken with fluids and food.

Treatment may continue for as long as it provides benefit. Regular doctor checkups to monitor potassium levels and otherwise monitor for developing side effects are recommended.

If a dose is missed it should be skipped entirely; resume treatment when it's time for the next dose. Too much of the medication can cause serious complications, including irreversible hearing loss. If children or pets consume the medication medical advice should be sought.

Side Effects & Warnings

The most common side effects associated with Diurisa include:

• Dry mouth
• Nausea
• Diarrhea
• Headache
• Numbness
• Tingling

The above symptoms are not cause for concern unless severe enough to be disruptive. In many cases they will stop occurring over time as the body adjusts to treatment.

Serious side effects are rare, but they do happen. Regular doctor checkups will help prevent serious complications. Seek medical attention at once if experiencing:

• Blurry vision
• Photosensitivity
• Persistent ringing in the ears
• Hearing loss
• Excessive drowsiness
• Confusion or altered mental state
• Bleeding or bruising readily
• Fever or chills
• Increased thirst
• Muscle pain
• Rapid heartbeat
• Difficulty urinating
• Difficulty breathing

Diurisa may cause drowsiness; use caution until effects are known.

Care should be taken to ensure adequate hydration while taking Diurisa, or any diuretic; chronic dehydration can produce serious complications all on its own. Alcohol consumption can compound the dehydrating effect of diuretics.

Diurisa should be used with caution in those with impaired liver or kidney function.

Since Diurisa can elevate blood glucose levels, blood glucose should be monitored carefully in diabetics. The medication should not be used if metabolic acidosis, or respiratory acidosis are present.