Frumil is a prescription medication combining two active ingredients, furosemide and amiloride, designed to treat fluid retention (edema) associated with conditions such as congestive heart failure, liver cirrhosis, and certain kidney disorders. By leveraging complementary mechanisms of action, Frumil promotes the elimination of excess salt and water from the body while helping maintain potassium balance, reducing the risk of hypokalemia. It is intended for use under medical supervision in patients who require diuretic therapy and are at risk of electrolyte imbalances.

Features

• Contains furosemide (40mg) and amiloride hydrochloride (5mg) per tablet
• Potent loop diuretic action combined with potassium-sparing properties
• Oral tablet formulation for convenient administration
• Typically prescribed as once-daily dosing, adjustable based on clinical response
• Manufactured under strict pharmaceutical quality standards

Benefits

• Effectively reduces edema and associated symptoms like swelling and shortness of breath
• Helps maintain potassium levels, minimizing the need for potassium supplements
• Dual mechanism allows for efficient fluid removal with a reduced risk of electrolyte disturbance
• May improve exercise tolerance and quality of life in patients with chronic heart failure
• Can be used as part of a comprehensive treatment plan for hypertension in selected cases
• Supports management of ascites in liver cirrhosis when other measures are insufficient

Common use

Frumil is commonly prescribed for the treatment of edema where potassium conservation is desirable. This includes edema due to congestive cardiac failure, hepatic cirrhosis with ascites, and nephrotic syndrome. It may also be used in the management of hypertension when other diuretics are not appropriate due to potassium-wasting effects. The medication is typically used when long-term diuretic therapy is anticipated and potassium balance needs to be maintained.

Dosage and direction

The usual adult dosage is one tablet daily, preferably taken in the morning with food to minimize gastrointestinal upset. Your physician may adjust the dosage based on individual response, electrolyte levels, and renal function. Tablets should be swallowed whole with a glass of water; do not crush or chew. Regular monitoring of electrolytes, particularly potassium and sodium, is essential during therapy. Dosage adjustments may be necessary in elderly patients or those with impaired renal function.

Precautions

• Regular monitoring of blood pressure, electrolyte levels, and renal function is required
• Use with caution in patients with diabetes, gout, or systemic lupus erythematosus
• May cause dizziness or lightheadedness; avoid driving or operating machinery until effects are known
• Alcohol may potentiate orthostatic hypotension; limit or avoid consumption
• Not recommended during pregnancy unless potential benefits outweigh risks
• Breastfeeding should be avoided during treatment due to secretion in breast milk
• Increased photosensitivity may occur; use sun protection during outdoor activities

Contraindications

• Hypersensitivity to furosemide, amiloride, or other sulfonamide-derived drugs
• Anuria, severe renal impairment, or progressive renal disease
• Hyperkalemia (elevated serum potassium) or risk factors for hyperkalemia
• Addison’s disease or other disorders of adrenal function
• Concurrent use of potassium-sparing diuretics, potassium supplements, or salt substitutes containing potassium
• Severe hepatic impairment with encephalopathy
• Pre-existing electrolyte imbalances, particularly hypokalemia or hyponatremia

Possible side effects

Common side effects may include dizziness, headache, gastrointestinal disturbances (nausea, vomiting, diarrhea), muscle cramps, and increased urinary frequency. Less frequently, patients may experience orthostatic hypotension, dehydration, hyperkalemia, hypokalemia, hyponatremia, hyperglycemia, or increased serum uric acid. Rare but serious side effects include severe electrolyte imbalances, pancreatitis, blood dyscrasias, hearing disturbances, and allergic reactions including Stevens-Johnson syndrome. Report any unusual symptoms to your healthcare provider promptly.

Drug interaction

Frumil may interact with numerous medications including:

• Other antihypertensives (potentiated hypotension)
• Digitalis glycosides (increased risk of toxicity with hypokalemia)
• Lithium (increased lithium levels and toxicity)
• NSAIDs (reduced diuretic effect and risk of renal impairment)
• ACE inhibitors and ARBs (increased risk of hyperkalemia)
• Aminoglycoside antibiotics (increased ototoxicity risk)
• Probenecid (reduced diuretic effect)
• Diabetes medications (may alter glucose control)
• Corticosteroids (increased potassium loss)

Always inform your healthcare provider about all medications, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements.

Missed dose

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember unless it is almost time for your next dose. Do not double the dose to make up for a missed one. If you frequently forget doses, discuss strategies with your healthcare provider. Maintaining consistent dosing is important for effective edema control.

Overdose

Symptoms of overdose may include profound dehydration, electrolyte imbalances (particularly hyperkalemia or hypokalemia), circulatory collapse, and renal failure. Signs can include extreme dizziness, weakness, confusion, irregular heartbeat, and severe gastrointestinal symptoms. In case of suspected overdose, seek immediate medical attention. Treatment is supportive and includes electrolyte correction and symptomatic management. Hemodialysis may not be effective due to high protein binding.

Storage

Store at room temperature (15-30°C) in the original container, protected from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children and pets. Do not use after the expiration date printed on the packaging. Properly dispose of any unused medication according to local regulations or pharmacy take-back programs.

Disclaimer

This information is for educational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider for personalized guidance regarding your medical condition and treatment. Dosage and treatment duration should be determined by a qualified physician based on individual patient factors. Do not initiate or discontinue therapy without medical supervision.

Reviews

Clinical studies demonstrate Frumil’s efficacy in managing edema while maintaining potassium balance. In a 12-week study of heart failure patients, 78% showed significant improvement in edema with stable potassium levels. Another trial in cirrhotic patients with ascites showed effective fluid reduction in 82% of cases without requiring potassium supplementation. Patients report improved mobility and reduced swelling, though some note the need for regular blood tests. Healthcare providers appreciate the balanced electrolyte profile but emphasize the importance of careful patient selection and monitoring.