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Torsemide |
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What is Torsemide and why is it prescribed? Torsemide is a diuretic drug. It flushes excess water from the body by promoting the production of urine. Torsemide is prescribed to reduce the water retention and swelling that often accompany congestive heart failure, chronic kidney failure, and cirrhosis of the liver. Torsemide is also prescribed for high blood pressure, either alone or with other medications. Torsemide has been known to cause dehydration, chemical imbalances in the body, and a reduction in the volume of blood. Warning signs of these problems include dryness of the mouth, thirst, weakness, drowsiness, restlessness, muscle pain or fatigue, low blood pressure, diminished urination, rapid heartbeat, nausea, and vomiting. If any of these symptoms develop, see your doctor immediately. You will probably need to stop taking Torsemide temporarily, then resume at a lower dose. How should you take Torsemide? Follow your doctors directions for taking Torsemide. Torsemide tablets can be taken with or without a meal. The diuretic effect begins within an hour and peaks during the first or second hour. If you miss a dose take the forgotten dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the one you missed and return to your regular schedule. Do not take two doses at once. Store Torsemide at room temperature. Do not freeze. Are there any Torsemide side effects? Torsemide side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, inform your doctor as soon as possible. More common Torsemide side effects may include excessive urination, dizziness, and headache. Less common Torsemide side effects may include chemical imbalances, chest pain, constipation, diarrhea, fainting, heartbeat irregularities, increased cough, indigestion, insomnia, joint pain, low blood pressure, muscle pain, nausea, nervousness, rapid heartbeat, rash, rectal bleeding, runny nose, sore throat, stomach bleeding, swelling, swollen face and throat, and weakness. What are the possible food and drug interactions when taking Torsemide? If Torsemide is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. Be sure to inform your doctor of all the prescription and over the counter medications you are taking. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Torsemide with Aminoglycoside antibiotics (such as Nebcin and streptomycin), Aspirin and other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (such as Advil, Indocin, Motrin, and Naprosyn), Cholestyramine (Questran), Ethacrynic acid (Edecrin), Lithium (Eskalith, Lithobid), or Probenecid. Are there any special warnings about Torsemide? If you have cirrhosis, the doctor will use Torsemide with great caution. The fluid and chemical imbalance that the drug can cause could send you into a coma. Torsemide may cause ringing in the ears and potential hearing loss, especially when large doses are given quickly. In addition to potential imbalances in potassium, sodium, chloride, calcium, magnesium, and nitrogen, Torsemide is known to cause a slight increase in blood sugar and cholesterol levels. |
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