Important Note

The following information is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacist or other healthcare professional. It should not be construed to indicate that use of the drug is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. Consult your healthcare professional before using this drug.

TORSEMIDE INJECTION

(TOR-seh-mide)

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Demadex

WARNING: This is a powerful fluid-reducing drug. Using too much of this drug can lead to serious water and mineral loss. Therefore, it is important you be monitored by your doctor. Promptly notify your doctor if you become very thirsty, have a dry mouth, or become confused while using this medication.

Uses

This drug is a diuretic. Diuretics decrease the amount of water retained in the body by increasing urination. This drug is used to treat edema (fluid retention of the lungs or swelling of the hands or feet) and high blood pressure.

How To Use

This drug is given by injection into a vein (IV). Inspect the ampule before using. If it is discolored or has particles, discard the ampule and use another. If this medication is used in the late afternoon or evening, you may need to urinate during the night. Consult your doctor regarding your dosing schedule.

Side Effects

This drug may cause dizziness and lightheadedness especially during the first few days as your body adjusts to it. Rise slowly from a seated or lying position. Blurred vision, loss of appetite, itching, stomach upset, headache and weakness may also occur during initial therapy as your body adjusts to the medication. Inform your doctor if you develop: muscle cramps, pain, nausea, vomiting, hearing difficulty. This medication increases urination. Expect this effect. In the unlikely event you have an allergic reaction to this drug, seek medical attention immediately. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include: rash, itching, swelling, dizziness, trouble breathing. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

Precautions

Before using this drug, tell your doctor your medical history especially of: kidney problems, unusual decrease in urine output, liver disease, any drug allergies. This drug can reduce the potassium levels in your blood. A potassium supplement may be prescribed by your doctor. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant before using this drug. It is not known if this drug is excreted into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

Drug Interactions

Tell your doctor of all prescription and nonprescription medicines you use especially of: lithium, digoxin, aminoglycoside antibiotics (e.g., gentamicin, tobramycin), NSAIDs (e.g., indomethacin, naproxen), aspirin, probenecid, ginseng, any other high blood pressure medicine. Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.

Overdose

If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include dry mouth, dizziness, excessive urination followed by a decrease in amount of urine, muscle cramps, weakness, and weak or irregular heartbeat.

Notes

Lab/blood tests may be done periodically to monitor your progress.

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose, use it as soon as remembered; do not use it if it is almost time for the next dose. Instead, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not "double-up" the dose to catch up.

Storage

Store at room temperature between 59 - 86 degrees F (15 - 30 C) away from moisture and light. Do not freeze. Do not store in the bathroom.

Medical Alert

Your condition can cause complications in a medical emergency. For enrollment information call MedicAlert at 1-800-854-1166 (USA), or 1-800-668-1507 (Canada).