Definition:
Bumetanide is a type of medication called a loop diuretic. Diuretics are sometimes referred to as ‘tablets’ of water. They help to eliminate excess fluid from the body by increasing urine production.
This medication removes excess fluid (edema) from the body due to heart failure, liver cirrhosis, or kidney failure. High blood pressure (hypertension) in people whose blood pressure has not been reduced enough with other medications or in people with kidney failure or heart failure.
Bumetanide is also used to eliminate excess fluid accumulated in people with liver cirrhosis.
This fluid can accumulate in the abdomen or legs (peripheral edema). Problems with blood circulation in the legs can also cause fluid retention and swelling of the ankles or calves, which can also be treated with Bumetanide.
At higher doses, the amount of water extracted from the blood in the urine is much higher. Therefore, this drug is also used when there is a decrease in urine production in people with kidney failure.
Similarly, the pressure within the blood vessels decreases, which is sometimes also used to treat high blood pressure, usually in people resistant to other medications to lower blood pressure.
Use of Bumetadine
Bumetanide tablets and liquids can be taken with or without food. The tablets should be swallowed with a glass of water. The dose prescribed by the doctor or specialist depends on the person and the condition to be treated. NEVER self-medicate.
This medication causes the kidneys to produce more urine, so taking it in the morning is recommended. It starts working in about an hour and its effects last around six hours. It can also be given by injection.
Pregnancy and lactation
Some medications should not be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding. However, other drugs can be used safely during pregnancy or breastfeeding because it benefits the mother, decreasing the risks to the fetus.
The safety of this medication during pregnancy has not been established. It should be avoided during pregnancy, especially in the first and third trimesters, unless the expected benefit outweighs any possible risk to the developing baby.
Side effects of Bumetanide
Possible side effects can affect people in different ways. The following are some of the side effects that are known to be associated with this medication:
- Stomach disturbances include diarrhea, constipation, indigestion, nausea, vomiting, or abdominal pain.
- Headache.
- Dizziness.
- Low blood pressure (hypotension).
- Fatigue.
- Dehydration.
- Muscle cramps.
- Decreased sodium, potassium, magnesium, or calcium levels in the blood.
- Increased uric acid levels in the blood (hyperuricemia) can cause kidney problems and gout.
- Increase in blood sugar levels (hyperglycemia).
- Skin reactions such as rash, itching, or hives.
- Breast pain or breast enlargement.
- Hearing disorders.
- Decrease in the average number of blood cells in the blood.
