Frusene

Health and Nutrition > Medicines > F



How does it work?

This medicine contains two active ingredients, triamterene and furosemide (previously known as frusemide in the UK). Furosemide is a type of medicine called a loop diuretic and triamterene is a type of medicine called a potassium-sparing diuretic. Triamterene and furosemide act in the kidney to remove excess water from the blood, by causing an increase in the removal of salts such sodium. This removal of salts causes water to be drawn out of the blood and into the kidneys, where it is then excreted in the urine. Removing water from the blood causes a decrease in the volume of fluid circulating through the blood vessels. This drop in fluid volume decreases the effort required by the heart to pump blood around the body. There are many conditions which may lead to an accumulation of fluid in the body (oedema). This medication is used in heart failure, where the pumping mechanism of the heart is less effective. It is used to relieve the symptoms of heart failure, such as the shortness of breath seen with fluid on the lungs. Furosemide when used alone can cause low potassium levels in the blood (hypokalaemia). Triamterene on the other hand prevents potassium loss, and is therefore included in this preparation not only to improve the effectiveness but also to prevent excessive potassium loss.

What is it used for?

- Congestive heart failure
- Excess fluid accumulation of any origin where potassium supplementation is necessary

Warning!

- This medicine may make your urine look slightly blue.
- It is recommended that individuals taking this medicine have their fluid and salt (electrolyte) balance monitored regularly.
- If you experience any of the following symptoms while taking this medicine you should inform your doctor promptly, so that the amount of fluids and salts in your body can be checked: thirst, lethargy, confusion, weakness, drowsiness, muscle cramps, scanty production of urine, abnormal heart rhythm, seizures, nausea and vomiting.
- As diuretics cause your kidneys to produce more urine, you may prefer to take this medicine in the morning rather than before going to bed, as this will reduce the likelihood of you needing to get up in the night to visit the toilet. Seek further advice from your doctor or pharmacist.

Use with caution in

- Diabetes
- Kidney failure

Not to be used in