Bumetanide (Bumex)
Bumetanide Uses
Bumetanide (Bumex) is a diuretic, also known as a “water pill.” This means it reduces excess fluid and salt in the body by increasing urine production.
Edema, or excess fluid, can be caused by a number of conditions, such as heart failure, kidney disease, and liver failure. This medication is also used to treat high blood pressure.
Bumetanide Dosage
The typical dose of bumetanide is 0.5 mg to 2 mg daily.
Doses for children are determined by the healthcare practitioner. This is typically based on a number of factors such as age, weight, and health condition.
Always follow your healthcare provider’s directions for taking your medication and do not attempt to change or discontinue the prescription without first consulting a healthcare professional.
Precautions
Because this medication acts on the kidneys, it is important that they are in good health. If you take bumetanide with kidney failure, you may increase your risk of adverse effects.
Bumetanide may also increase gout flare-ups as it increases uric acid production which can lead to a buildup of uric acid crystals in joints.
Speak to your healthcare provider about your current health conditions to be sure you receive the best course of treatment.
Bumetanide Side Effects
Common Side Effects
These side effects are mild and usually short-lived as the body adjusts to the medication. If any of the following side effect become bothersome or last more than a few days speak to your pharmacist or healthcare provider:
- Increased urine frequency
- Increased thirst
- Dry mouth
- Headaches
- Dizziness
- Muscle cramps/weakness
Serious Side Effects
These side effects are rare but could indicate serious health complications. Speak to your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any of the following:
- Ringing in ears or hearing loss
- Easy/more frequent bruising/bleeding, sore throat, fever, and mouth ulcers
Interactions
Some medications are known to affect the way bumetanide works or increase your chance of side effects. Speak to your healthcare provider about any current medications and new medications you may begin taking while on bumetanide.
Some medications that may interact with bumetanide are:
- Medications that increase potassium
- Lithium
- NSAIDs (e.g., ibuprofen, naproxen)
- Medications that treat high blood pressure or have the side effect of lowering blood pressure
- Medications that treat irregular heart rhythms or have the side effect of an irregular heartbeat
Bumetanide and Alcohol
It is best to avoid alcohol while on bumetanide as alcohol is also a diuretic. This can increase your chance of side effects such as dizziness and dehydration.
Alcohol also affects your blood pressure and heavy drinking can lead to heightened blood pressure. If you choose to drink, be sure to not exceed the daily recommended limit of 1 unit/day for women and 2 units/day for men.
Bumetanide and Salt
If you have too much sodium, this can stop bumetanide from working properly. Monitor your sodium intake and aim to stay below the recommended limit of 6 g of salt per day.
Bumetanide Cost
The average retail price for a 1-month supply of bumetanide 1 mg is $41.77.
Get Bumetanide For Less at Marley Drug
Marley Dug offers the same prescription of bumetanide for $23.54. If you order a larger fill, your medication can cost as little as $6.52 per month.
Plus all prescriptions ship free to all 50 states to save you time and money on your medications.
Questions? Call us at 1 800-810-7790 and speak to our pharmacy team today.