Ethacrynic acid
Generic name: ethacrynic acid [ eth-a-KRIN-ik-AS-id ]
Brand names: Edecrin, Edecrin Sodium
Dosage form: oral tablet (25 mg)
Drug class:Loop diuretics
What is ethacrynic acid?
Ethacrynic acid is a loop diuretic (water pill) that prevents your body from absorbing too much salt, allowing the salt to instead be passed in your urine.
Ethacrynic acid is used to treat fluid retention (edema) in people with congestive heart failure, liver disease, or a kidney disorder such as nephrotic syndrome.
Ethacrynic acid may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.
Warnings
You should not use ethacrynic acid if you are unable to urinate, or if you have recently had severe watery diarrhea.
Before taking this medicine
You should not use ethacrynic acid if you are allergic to it, or if:
you are unable to urinate; or
you have recently had severe watery diarrhea.
To make sure ethacrynic acid is safe for you, tell your doctor if you have:
cirrhosis or other liver disease;
heart disease;
an electrolyte imbalance (such as low levels of potassium or magnesium in your blood);
kidney disease;
gout; or
if you are on a low-salt diet.
Ethacrynic acid is not expected to be harmful to an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant while using ethacrynic acid.
It is not known whether ethacrynic acid passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby. You should not breast-feed while using this medicine.
Ethacrynic acid is not approved for use by anyone younger than 18 years old.
How should I take ethacrynic acid?
Follow all directions on your prescription label. Your doctor may occasionally change your dose to make sure you get the best results. Do not use this medicine in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended.
Take this medicine after a meal, unless your doctor tells you otherwise.
Ethacrynic acid will make you urinate more often and you may get dehydrated easily. Follow your doctor's instructions about using potassium supplements or getting enough salt and potassium in your diet.
While using ethacrynic acid, you may need frequent blood tests and weight checks.
Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Keep the bottle tightly closed when not in use.
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