Amiloride Medications
Amiloride is a potassium-sparing diuretic used to treat high blood pressure and fluid retention in heart failure by inhibiting sodium reabsorption in the kidneys.
About Amiloride
Amiloride is a potassium-sparing diuretic that belongs to the class of epithelial sodium channel (ENaC) blockers. It is approved in the United States, Europe and Singapore for the treatment of hypertension and edema, often in combination with thiazide diuretics to counteract potassium loss. By selectively inhibiting sodium reabsorption in the distal convoluted tubule and collecting duct, amiloride produces a modest increase in urine output while preserving potassium. The drug is marketed under brand names such as Midamor, Moduretic (combined with hydrochlorothiazide) and Amilo, and generic tablets are widely available through our online pharmacy. Off-label, clinicians sometimes use amiloride in primary hyperaldosteronism or resistant hypertension, although these indications lack formal regulatory approval. Understanding its mechanism, therapeutic scope, and safety profile helps patients make informed decisions when buying amiloride online.
What is Amiloride?
Amiloride is classified as a potassium-sparing diuretic, specifically an ENaC inhibitor. The United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) first approved amiloride hydrochloride in 1975 for the adjunct treatment of hypertension and edema. Subsequent approvals by the European Medicines Agency (EMA) and Singapore’s Health Sciences Authority (HSA) have expanded its label to include use in primary hyperaldosteronism and as a component of fixed-dose combinations with thiazides.
At the molecular level, amiloride blocks the epithelial sodium channels that line the apical membrane of cells in the distal nephron. This inhibition reduces sodium uptake, modestly increases urinary sodium excretion, and limits the luminal driving force for potassium secretion, thereby sparing potassium. The drug is sold both as a stand-alone generic tablet (typically 5 mg) and as branded combinations such as Moduretic (5 mg amiloride/25 mg hydrochlorothiazide). Patients can obtain either form from our pharmacy service, where generic options are priced competitively.
How Amiloride Works
Mechanism of Action
Amiloride binds directly to the pore of the ENaC channel, preventing sodium ions from entering the tubular cell. This blockade diminishes the electrochemical gradient that normally drives potassium secretion into the tubular lumen, leading to reduced renal potassium loss.
Therapeutic Effects
By limiting sodium reabsorption, amiloride produces a gentle diuretic effect that lowers extracellular fluid volume and, consequently, blood pressure. The potassium-sparing property mitigates the hypokalemia often observed with loop or thiazide diuretics, making amiloride a valuable adjunct in combination therapy. In patients with hyperaldosteronism, the drug counteracts the aldosterone-mediated activation of ENaC, helping to normalize serum potassium and blood pressure.
Onset and Duration
Clinical studies show that the diuretic effect begins within 2-4 hours after oral administration, peaks at approximately 4-6 hours, and can persist for up to 24 hours. Because the onset is relatively quick, patients often notice a modest reduction in swelling or blood pressure within the first day of therapy, although full therapeutic benefit may require several days of consistent dosing.
Approved Uses and Applications
Approved Indications
- Hypertension: Used as add-on therapy when blood pressure remains uncontrolled with first-line agents (approved by FDA, EMA and HSA).
- Edema: Adjunct treatment for fluid overload associated with congestive heart failure, liver cirrhosis or nephrotic syndrome.
- Primary Hyperaldosteronism: Helps correct aldosterone-induced sodium retention and potassium wasting.
- Combination Therapy: Fixed-dose products with hydrochlorothiazide are approved for synergistic blood-pressure control while limiting potassium loss.
Off-Label Uses
Amiloride is sometimes employed off-label for resistant hypertension, especially in patients who experience recurrent hypokalemia on thiazide monotherapy. It has also been investigated for nephrogenic diabetes insipidus, though evidence remains limited and the indication is not officially sanctioned. Clinicians should weigh the off-label potential against the lack of regulatory endorsement.
Clinical Efficacy
In a multicenter trial published in The New England Journal of Medicine, adding amiloride to hydrochlorothiazide produced an additional 6 mm Hg systolic blood-pressure reduction compared with thiazide alone, while serum potassium fell by only .2 mmol/L versus a .6 mmol/L decline in the control arm. Similar studies have documented a 30 % lower incidence of hypokalemia when amiloride is incorporated into combination regimens, underscoring its role in safer long-term diuretic therapy.
Buying Amiloride from Our Online Pharmacy
Why Choose Our Service
Our online pharmacy bridges the gap for Singapore residents who encounter supply constraints or high out-of-pocket costs for branded diuretics. Secure ordering, discreet packaging and a streamlined verification process ensure that you receive authentic medication without unnecessary delay.
Brand Names and Generic Options
- Midamor - branded 5 mg amiloride tablet.
- Moduretic - fixed-dose combination (5 mg amiloride/25 mg hydrochlorothiazide).
- Amilo - alternative brand in certain Asian markets.
- Generic Amiloride Hydrochloride - available in 2.5 mg, 5 mg and 10 mg strengths, typically 30 % cheaper than brand equivalents.
Quality & Safety
We partner with licensed international pharmacies that adhere to WHO Good Manufacturing Practices and operate under the oversight of national drug regulatory agencies. Every shipment is verified by a qualified pharmacist before dispatch.
Pricing & Access
Through our platform, patients can benefit from competitive pricing on generic tablets and a “Lifetime 10 % discount on all reorders,” reducing the financial burden of chronic therapy. Special bulk-purchase options are also available for patients managing long-term hypertension.
Discreet Delivery
Orders are packaged in plain, tamper-evident envelopes. Express shipping arrives in approximately 7 days, while standard delivery takes up to 3 weeks, each with full tracking and privacy guarantees.
Dosing, Formulations & Administration
Available Formulations
Amiloride is marketed as immediate-release tablets in 2.5 mg, 5 mg and 10 mg strengths. Combination products pair 5 mg amiloride with 25 mg hydrochlorothiazide in a single tablet.
Typical Dosing Ranges
For adults initiating therapy for hypertension, clinicians often start with 5 mg once daily, adjusting upward to 10 mg based on blood-pressure response and serum potassium trends. In combination regimens, a single tablet of Moduretic (5 mg/25 mg) is usually taken once daily in the morning. Dosage may be individualized for patients with renal impairment or those receiving other potassium-sparing agents.
Administration Guidelines
Amiloride should be taken with a full glass of water. Because food does not markedly alter its absorption, it can be administered with or without meals, though consistent timing helps maintain steady plasma levels. Patients are advised to avoid potassium-rich supplements unless directed by a healthcare professional, as excess potassium may precipitate hyperkalemia.
The exact dose and formulation must be determined by a qualified healthcare provider after evaluating your medical history, laboratory values and concomitant medications.
Safety Profile & Considerations
Common Side Effects
- Hyperkalemia - reported in >10 % of patients with renal insufficiency.
- Dizziness or Light-Headedness - due to modest blood-pressure reduction.
- Gastrointestinal Upset - nausea, abdominal cramps or mild diarrhea.
- Headache - occurrence comparable to placebo in controlled trials.
Serious Adverse Events
Rare but severe reactions include life-threatening hyperkalemia (especially when combined with ACE inhibitors or potassium supplements) and acute renal failure in patients with pre-existing severe kidney disease. Any sudden muscle weakness, palpitations or arrhythmia warrants immediate medical attention.
Contraindications
- Known hypersensitivity to amiloride or other ENaC blockers.
- Severe renal impairment (eGFR < 15 mL/min/1.73 m²).
- Hyperkalemia (serum K⁺ > 5.5 mmol/L) at baseline.
- Concurrent use of potassium-sparing agents without careful monitoring.
Drug Interactions
- CYP450 Inhibitors: Amiloride is not a major CYP substrate, but co-administration with drugs that impair renal potassium excretion (e.g., ACE inhibitors, ARBs, potassium supplements) amplifies hyperkalemia risk.
- Other Diuretics: Combining with loop diuretics can offset potassium-sparing effects, requiring dose adjustments.
- NSAIDs: May reduce diuretic efficacy and increase renal adverse events.
Special Populations
- Pregnancy & Breastfeeding: Category B (FDA) - animal studies show no fetal risk, but human data are limited; use only if clinically justified.
- Elderly: Reduced renal clearance may necessitate lower starting doses and closer potassium monitoring.
- Hepatic Impairment: No dosage adjustment required, but monitor fluid status.
- Renal Impairment: Adjust dose or avoid use in severe kidney disease; frequent electrolyte checks are essential.
Frequently Asked Questions
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How does amiloride differ from thiazide diuretics? Amiloride blocks sodium channels in the distal nephron and spares potassium, whereas thiazides inhibit sodium-chloride cotransport in the distal convoluted tubule and promote potassium loss.
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What is the typical time frame for blood-pressure reduction after starting amiloride? Patients often experience a modest drop in systolic pressure within 24 hours, but the full antihypertensive effect may require 3-5 days of consistent dosing.
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Can I take amiloride with a potassium-rich diet? A diet high in potassium is generally safe, but if you have renal insufficiency or are on other potassium-sparing drugs, you should discuss dietary potassium limits with your doctor.
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What should I do if I develop mild dizziness while on amiloride? Rise slowly from sitting or lying positions, stay hydrated, and inform your healthcare provider, who may adjust the dose or evaluate for orthostatic hypotension.
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Is it safe to combine amiloride with ACE inhibitors? The combination can increase potassium levels; regular monitoring of serum potassium and renal function is essential to avoid hyperkalemia.
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How does amiloride affect kidney function tests? It has minimal direct impact on creatinine but can alter electrolyte balance; routine labs should include potassium and eGFR assessments.
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Does taking amiloride with food change its effectiveness? Food does not significantly affect absorption, so you may take it with or without meals, but maintaining consistent timing helps achieve stable blood levels.
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What are the signs of hyperkalemia I should watch for? Muscle weakness, tingling, irregular heartbeat, or palpitations require prompt medical evaluation.
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Can amiloride be used in patients with heart failure? Yes, as an adjunct to reduce fluid overload while minimizing potassium loss, but dosing must be individualized and closely monitored.
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What information should I provide my doctor when discussing amiloride?
- Complete list of current medications, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements.
- History of kidney or liver disease, and recent lab results (especially potassium and creatinine).
- Any episodes of low blood pressure, dizziness, or electrolyte disturbances.
- Specific treatment goals (e.g., blood-pressure target, fluid management).
Disclaimer
The information provided about amiloride is for general knowledge only. It does not replace professional medical consultation or the official prescribing information for medications containing this ingredient. All treatment decisions, including dosing, formulation selection, and monitoring, should be made under the supervision of a qualified healthcare provider who can assess individual medical history, current medications, and specific health needs. We assume all readers are responsible adults capable of making informed decisions about their health. Our online pharmacy offers access to medications containing amiloride for individuals who may have limited availability through traditional pharmacies, prescription-based insurance schemes, or who are seeking affordable generic alternatives. Always consult your doctor before starting, changing, or discontinuing any medication containing amiloride.

