Torsemide (Systemic)
Brand Names : Demadex
Precautions While Using This MedicineIt is
important that your doctor check your progress at regular visits to make sure
that this medicine is working properly.
This medicine may cause a loss of potassium from your
body
:
-
To help prevent this, your doctor may want you to:
-
eat or drink foods that have a high potassium content (for example,
orange or other citrus fruit juices), or
-
take a potassium supplement, or
-
take another medicine to help prevent the loss of the potassium in
the first place.
-
It is very important to follow these directions. Also, it is important
not to change your diet on your own. This is more important if you are already
on a special diet (as for diabetes) or if you are taking a potassium supplement
or a medicine to reduce potassium loss. Extra potassium may not be necessary
and, in some cases, too much potassium could be harmful.
To prevent the loss of too much water and potassium, tell your doctor if
you become sick, especially with severe or continuing nausea and vomiting
or diarrhea.
Before having any kind of surgery (including dental surgery) or emergency
treatment, make sure the medical doctor or dentist in charge knows that you
are taking this medicine.
Dizziness, lightheadedness, or fainting may occur,
especially when you get up from a lying or sitting position
. This is
more likely to occur in the morning. Getting up slowly
may help
. When you get up from lying down, sit on the edge of the bed
with your feet dangling for 1 or 2 minutes. Then stand up slowly. If the problem
continues or gets worse, check with your doctor.
The dizziness, lightheadedness, or fainting is also more likely to occur
if you drink alcohol, stand for long periods of time, or exercise, or if the
weather is hot. While you are taking this medicine, be
careful to limit the amount of alcohol you drink. Also, use extra care during
exercise or hot weather or if you must stand for long periods of time
.
For diabetic patients
:
-
This medicine may affect blood sugar levels. While you are using
this medicine, be especially careful in testing for sugar in your blood or
urine.
For patients taking this medicine for high blood pressure
:
-
Do not take other medicines unless they have
been discussed with your doctor
. This especially includes over-the-counter
(nonprescription) medicines for appetite control, asthma, colds, cough, hay
fever, or sinus problems, since they may tend to increase your blood pressure.
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