Bumetanide
Generic Name: Bumetanide
What is Bumetanide?
Bumetanide is used to treat excess water in the body associated with congestive heart failure and liver or kidney disease. It is also used with other drugs to treat high blood pressure.What is the most important information I should know about Bumetanide?
Bumetanide is a powerful drug. If taken in excessive amounts, it can severely decrease the levels of water and electrolytes. Your doctor should monitor your dose carefully. You should visit your doctor regularly to make sure you have sufficient blood levels of electrolytes.If you have kidney disease and problems urinating, you may need to discontinue Bumetanide.
Who should not take Bumetanide?
Do not take Bumetanide if you are sensitive to or allergic to this drug.Do not take Bumetanide if you cannot urinate, if you are dehydrated, or if you have severe liver disease (i.e., hepatic coma).
Because Bumetanide can deplete your electrolytes, avoid taking it if you have low electrolyte levels.
What should I tell my doctor before I take the first dose of Bumetanide?
Tell your doctor about all prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal medications you are taking before beginning treatment with Bumetanide. Also, talk to your doctor about your complete medical history, especially if you are allergic to sulfur-containing drugs such as sulfonamides (antibacterial drugs); have heart, kidney, or liver disease; a history of irregular heartbeats (e.g., arrhythmia); diarrhea; hearing loss; or are pregnant, breastfeeding, planning to become pregnant, or planning to breastfeed.What is the usual dosage?
The information below is based on the dosage guidelines your doctor uses. Depending on your condition and medical history, your doctor may prescribe a different regimen. Do not change the dosage or stop taking your medication without your doctor's approval.Adults: The usual total daily dose of Bumetanide is 0.5-2 milligrams (mg) a day. If the initial dose is not adequate, your doctor may have you take a second and, possibly, a third dose at 4- to 5-hour intervals up to a maximum daily dose of 10 mg.
Your doctor may tell you to take Bumetanide every other day or for 3-4 days at a time with rest periods of 1-2 days in between. The dosage should be kept to a minimum if you have liver failure.
The safety and effectiveness of Bumetanide has not been established in children <18 years of age.
How should I take Bumetanide?
Take Bumetanide exactly as prescribed by your doctor.What should I avoid while taking Bumetanide?
Bumetanide may make you feel dizzy or lightheaded. Avoid getting up quickly from a lying or seated position.Avoid breastfeeding or becoming pregnant while taking Bumetanide.
What are possible food and drug interactions associated with Bumetanide?
If Bumetanide is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Bumetanide with the following: aminoglycoside antibiotics and other drugs that may affect hearing, blood pressure medications such as atenolol or enalapril, digitalis, drugs that are toxic to the kidney, indomethacin, lithium, and probenecid.What are the possible side effects of Bumetanide?
Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, tell your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking this drug.Side effects may include: dizziness, headache, low blood pressure, muscle cramps, nausea, reduced levels of electrolytes
Can I receive Bumetanide if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?
The effects of Bumetanide during pregnancy and breastfeeding are unknown. Tell your doctor immediately if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding.What should I do if I miss a dose of Bumetanide?
If you miss a dose of Bumetanide, take the missed dose as soon as you remember it. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the one you missed and return to your regular dosing schedule. Do not take two doses at once. If you are unsure, ask your doctor or pharmacist for advice.How should I store Bumetanide?
Store at room temperature away from light.
I'm Beth Isaac, PharmD. Welcome to PDR Health!
