Ethacrynic Acid Description

Generic Name : ETHACRYNIC ACID

Pronunciation : (eth a krin' ik)

Trade Name(s) : Edecrin

Why it is prescribed: Ethacrynic acid, a water pill, causes the kidneys to eliminate unneeded water and salt from the body into the urine. It is used to treat high blood pressure and the swelling and water retention caused by various medical problems, including heart disease.

When it is to be taken:
1. Ethacrynic acid is usually taken once or twice a day.
2. Follow the instructions on your prescription label carefully.
3. If you are to take it once a day, take it in the morning.
4. If you are to take it twice a day, take it in the morning and in the late afternoon to avoid going to the bathroom during the night.
5. Ethacrynic acid begins to work about 30 minutes after it is taken and goes on working for six to 12 hours.

How it should be taken: How it should be taken: This medication comes in the form of tablets. Your prescription label tells you how much to take at each dose. Take ethacrynic acid with meals or immediately after eating.

Special Instruction :
1. Keep all appointments with your doctor. Your blood pressure should be checked regularly. Blood tests also may be done, especially if your treatment lasts longer than one month.
2. Follow your doctor's dietary recommendations. You may be instructed to take a potassium supplement or to increase the amount of potassium-rich foods in your diet.
3. If you forget to take a dose, do not take a missed dose when you remember it. Omit it and take only your regular dose at the next scheduled time.

Side Effects :
1. Nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, stomach pain. Take the medication with meals or immediately after eating. If the problem continues, contact your doctor.
2. Extreme thirst, muscle cramps or weakness. Be sure that you are taking your potassium supplement correctly, if prescribed. Contact your doctor if these symptoms persist.
3. Decreased hearing, toss of balance, ringing or fullness in the ears, severe diarrhea. Contact your doctor.
4. Chills, headache, confusion. These symptoms may decrease with time; if they get worse, contact your doctor.

Other Precautions :
1. If you have diabetes, gout, or liver problems, tell your doctor before taking ethacrynic acid.
2. Before you take ethacrynic acid, tell your doctor about any drugs you are taking, especially blood thinners, diabetes medications, heart medications, and lithium.
3. Pregnant women and breast-feeding women should not take ethacrynic acid. Do not allow anyone else to take this medication.

Storage Conditions : Keep this medication in the container it came in and out of the reach of children.