What is this medication for?
Amiloride - hydrochlorothiazide is a medication that contains 2 diuretics (or "water pills") that are used to treat high blood pressure or congestive heart failure. Amiloride is used when treatment with certain medications has caused low blood potassium levels or when low blood potassium levels could be problematic.
This medication works by causing the body to lose excess water and salt. Amiloride, called a potassium-sparing diuretic, does not cause potassium to be lost from the body while hydrochlothiazide does cause potassium loss.
Your doctor may have suggested this medication for conditions other than those listed here. As well, some forms of this medication may not be used for all of the conditions discussed here. If you are not sure why you are taking this medication, speak to your doctor. Do not stop taking this medication without consulting your doctor.
Do not give this medication to anyone else, even if they have the same symptoms as you do. It can be harmful for people to take this medication if their doctor has not prescribed it.
What form(s) does this medication come in?
Amiloride and Hydrochlorothiazide by Mylan is available as:
- tablets
- 5 mg of amiloride and 50 mg of hydrochlorothiazide
Some medications may have other generic brands available. Always ask your doctor or pharmacist about the safety of switching between brands of the same medication.
How should I use this medication?
The usual adult dose of amiloride - hydrochorothiazide is 1 or 2 tablets taken daily in one dose or in divided doses. If one dose is taken, it should be taken early in the day to avoid the need to visit the washroom during sleeping hours. This medication should be taken with food.
Many things can affect the dose of medication that a person needs, such as body weight, other medical conditions, and other medications. If your doctor has recommended a dose different from the ones listed here, do not change the way that you are taking the medication without consulting your doctor.
It is important to take this medication exactly as prescribed by your doctor. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as possible and continue with your regular schedule. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one. If you are not sure what to do after missing a dose, contact your doctor or pharmacist for advice.
Store this medication at room temperature, protect is from light, moisture and freezing, and keep it out of the reach of children.
Who should NOT take this medication?
Do not take this medication if you:
- are allergic to hydrochlorothiazide, amiloride, or any ingredients of this medication
- are allergic to sulfa drugs (e.g., sulfamethoxazole)
- are taking potassium supplements or other potassium-sparing diuretics (e.g., triamterene or spironolactone)
- are unable to urinate
- have acute kidney failure
- have diabetic kidney disease
- have high blood potassium levels (hyperkalemia)
- have severe or progressive kidney disease