Ethacrynic Acid Oral tablet Health Article

Generic name(s):

Ethacrynic Acid Oral tablet

Brand name(s):

Edecrin, Edecrin Sodium

What is this medicine?

ETHACRYNIC ACID (eth a KRIN ik AS id) is a diuretic. It helps you make more urine and to lose salt and excess water for your body. This medicine is used to treat edema, heart failure, or water retention.

This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.

What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

• abnormal blood electrolytes
• diarrhea or vomiting
• gout
• hearing problems
• heart disease
• kidney disease, small amounts of urine, or difficulty passing urine
• liver disease
• an unusual or allergic reaction to ethacrynic acid, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives
• pregnant or trying to get pregnant
• breast-feeding

How should I use this medicine?

Take this medicine by mouth. Follow the directions on the prescription label. This medicine should be taken after a meal. Do not take your medicine more often than directed. Remember that you will pass more urine after taking this medicine. Do not take your medicine at a time of day that will cause you problems.

Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.

Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.
NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses.

What may interact with this medicine?

• antiinflammatory drugs like indomethacin
• certain antibiotics given by injection
• diuretics
• heart medicines like digoxin
• hormones like cortisone, fludrocortisone, or hydrocortisone
• lithium
• medicines for diabetes
• medicines for high blood pressure
• warfarin

This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.

What should I watch for while using this medicine?

Visit your doctor or health care professional for regular check ups. Check your blood pressure regularly. Ask your doctor or health care professional what your blood pressure should be, and when you should contact him or her. If you are diabetic, check your blood sugar as directed. Do not stop taking your medicine unless your doctor tells you to.

You may need to be on a special diet while taking this medicine. Ask your doctor. Also, ask how many glasses of fluids you need to drink each day. You must not get dehydrated.

This medication can make you feel confused, dizzy or lightheaded. Drinking alcohol can make this worse. Do not drive, use machinery, or do anything that needs mental alertness until you know how this medicine affects you. To reduce the risk of dizzy or fainting spells, do not sit or stand up quickly.