Co-amilofruse

Co-amilofruse is a combination medication used in the treatment of congestive heart failure and edema. It is a combination of two active ingredients: amiloride, a potassium-sparing diuretic, and furosemide, a loop diuretic.

Pharmacology

Amiloride works by inhibiting sodium reabsorption in the distal convoluted tubules and collecting ducts in the kidneys by binding to the sodium channels. This promotes the loss of sodium and water from the body, but reduces the loss of potassium.

Furosemide works by inhibiting the Na-K-2Cl symporter in the thick ascending limb of the loop of Henle, thus promoting the loss of sodium, potassium, and chloride ions, and water from the body.

The combination of these two diuretics has a synergistic effect, resulting in potent diuresis with the prevention of excessive potassium loss.

Clinical Use

Co-amilofruse is used in the management of congestive heart failure where there is co-existing potassium depletion, or in patients at risk of developing hypokalaemia. It is also used in the treatment of edema due to liver and kidney diseases.

Side Effects

The most common side effects of co-amilofruse include hypotension, dehydration, hyponatremia, hypokalemia, and hyperkalemia. Less common side effects include dizziness, headache, nausea, vomiting, and rash.

Contraindications

Co-amilofruse is contraindicated in patients with anuria, acute renal failure, severe liver disease, and hyperkalemia. It should be used with caution in patients with diabetes, gout, and systemic lupus erythematosus.

See Also

• Diuretic
• Congestive heart failure
• Edema
• Amiloride
• Furosemide