Edecrin (Ethacrynic Acid) Drug Overview and Uses for Patients and Caregivers at RxList

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May 27, 2012

Edecrin

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High blood pressure facts

High blood pressure (hypertension) is designated as either essential (primary) hypertension or secondary hypertension and is defined as a consistently elevated blood pressure exceeding 140/90 mm Hg.
High blood pressure is called "the silent killer" because it often causes no symptoms for many years, even decades, until it finally damages certain critical organs.
Poorly controlled high blood pressure ultimately can cause damage to blood vessels in the eye, thickening of the heart muscle and heart attacks, hardening of the arteries (arteriosclerosis), kidney failure, and strokes.
Most antihypertensive medications can be used alone or in combination. Some are used only in combination. Some are preferred over others in certain specific medical situations. And some are not to be used (contraindicated) in other situations.
Several classes of antihypertensive medications are available, including ACE i...

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Edecrin Consumer

IMPORTANT: HOW TO USE THIS INFORMATION: This is a summary and does NOT have all possible information about this product. This information does not assure that this product is safe, effective, or appropriate for you. This information is not individual medical advice and does not substitute for the advice of your health care professional. Always ask your health care professional for complete information about this product and your specific health needs.

ETHACRYNIC ACID - ORAL

(eth-a-KRIN-ik AS-id)

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Edecrin

USES: Ethacrynic acid is a "water pill" (diuretic) that increases the amount of urine you make. This helps your body get rid of extra water. This medication decreases swelling/fluid retention (edema) caused by conditions such as cancer, congestive heart failure, liver disease, and kidney disease. This effect can help improve symptoms such as trouble breathing and swollen belly (ascites) and improve kidney function.

This medication should not be used in infants.

OTHER USES: This section contains uses of this drug that are not listed in the approved professional labeling for the drug but that may be prescribed by your health care professional. Use this drug for a condition that is listed in this section only if it has been so prescribed by your health care professional.

This drug may be used to treat high blood pressure in people who are allergic to other "water pills"/diuretics.

HOW TO USE: Take this medication by mouth, usually once or twice a day after a meal or as directed by your doctor.

It is best to avoid taking this medication within 4 hours of your bedtime to avoid having to get up to urinate. Consult your doctor or pharmacist if you have questions about your dosing schedule.

The dosage is based on your condition and response to therapy. Your doctor may start you on a low dose once a day and then gradually increase the dose. Your doctor will adjust your dose based on changes in your weight, how much swelling (edema) you have, and your lab test results (sodium, potassium, acid/base). Your doctor may stop the drug or lower the dose after most of the extra water is gone. Some people may take this medication every other day or occasionally when needed. Follow your doctor's directions carefully.

Take this medication regularly in order to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, take it at the same time(s) each day.

Inform your doctor if your condition persists or worsens.