Triamterene
Triamterene Information

About Triamterene

Triamterene is a potassium sparing diuretic, independent of the presence or absence of aldosterone. Triamterene is antihypertensive agent. Chemically Triamterene is 2, 4, 7- triamino-6-phenylpteridine. It inhibits reabsorption of sodium ions in exchange for potassium and hydrogen ion at the site of distal tubules. Triamterene is also used in combination with thiazide diuretic in the management of oedema associated with congestive heart failure, cirrhosis and nephrotic syndrome.

Indications

Triamterene is primarily indicated in conditions like Edema, Heart failure, Hypertension, Oedema, Potassium conservation with thiazide/loop diuretics, and can also be given in adjunctive therapy as an alternative drug of choice in Liver cirrhosis, Nephrotic syndrome.

Contraindication

Triamterene is contraindicated in conditions like Renal failure,Hyperkalaemia.

Side Effects

The severe or irreversible adverse effects of Triamterene, which give rise to further complications include Rashes, Thrombocytopenic purpura, Megaloblastic anemia, Renal stones, Nephrotic diabetes insipidus.Triamterene produces potentially life-threatening effects which include Hyperkalemia, Acute Renal Failure, Hypovolemia. which are responsible for the discontinuation of Triamterene therapy.The signs and symptoms that are produced after the acute overdosage of Triamterene include GI disturbances, Muscular weakness.The symptomatic adverse reactions produced by Triamterene are more or less tolerable and if they become severe, they can be treated symptomatically, these include Weakness, Headache, Diarrhea, Dry mouth, Nausea and vomiting.

Warnings

Triamterene should be used with caution in patients with diabetes, liver, kidney problems or gout. Avoid prolonged sun exposure, use sunscreen and wear protective clothing. It should be used with caution during pregnancy and lactation.

High Risk Groups

Drug should not be given to Paediatrics, patients suffering from Kidney dysfunction, and Neonates.If prescribing authority justifies the benefits of the drug against the possible damages he/she should reevaluate them and consult the reference material and previous studies.