Diuretics
(Bendrofluazide, amiloride, spironalactone, bumetanide, frusemide)
Diuretics stimulate the kidneys to produce more urine and so get rid of the body’s extra fluid and salt. This helps to stop fluid from collecting in your lungs, feet, ankles, legs and stomach and so makes you less breathless
Each dose of diuretic you take makes you pass urine for up to 6 hours, but they don’t have to be taken at the same time each day so you can take them at a time convenient to you
Possible side-effects include dizziness, light-headedness and tiredness or a washed out feeling. Please also be aware that vomiting, diarrhoea, hot weather and low fluid intake can affect how a diuretic works
Diuretics like spironalactone can increase the level of potassium in your blood. To reduce the risk of too much potassium you should avoid salt substitutes such as “low salt”. Spironolactone can also sometimes affect the kidneys so you will require regular blood tests in the first couple for months of therapy being started
Used to treat high blood pressure and heart failure.