Triamterene

Drug #733

Triamterene is a potassium sparing diuretic, independent of the presence or absence of aldosterone. Triamterene is antihypertensive agent. Chemically Triamterene is 2, 4, 7- triamino-6-phenylpteridine. It inhibits reabsorption of sodium ions in exchange for potassium and hydrogen ion at the site of distal tubules. Triamterene is also used in combination with thiazide diuretic in the management of oedema associated with congestive heart failure, cirrhosis and nephrotic syndrome.

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Primary Characteristics

It is of Synthetic origin and belongs to Pteridine.

It belongs to Na channel inhibitor (K-Sparing) pharmacological group on the basis of mechanism of action. It is also classified under Diuretics .

Molecular Weight: 253.3 · pK_a: 6.2 · Solubility in Water: 1 in 1000 · Solubility in Alcohol: 1 in 3000 · Non-proprietary name: Triamterene.

Pharmacokinetics

Absorption: Triamterene has an oral bioavailability is 56.5% (±26.5%), pre-systemic (first-pass) metabolism accounts for 40%.

Distribution: Triamterene has a volume of distribution is 2.2-3.7 l/kg. plasma protein binding is 45 - 70 %.

Elimination: it is metabolised via Hepatic, plasma half-life is 1.5 - 2.5 hr, renal excretion is extensive.

Indications

Triamterene is primarily indicated in conditions like Edema, Heart failure, Hypertension, Oedema, Potassium conservation with thiazide/loop diuretics.

Triamterene is also indicated for secondary conditions like Liver cirrhosis, Nephrotic syndrome.

Contraindications

Triamterene is contraindicated in conditions like Renal failure, Hyperkalaemia.

Dosage

Triamterene's dosage details are as follows:

Dose	Single Dose	Frequency	Route	Instructions
Adult Dosage
100 mg	100 mg	Every 12h	PO	Initially for 1 Week
100 mg	100 mg	Every 12h	PO	Maintenance, every alternate day, As Required
Paediatric Dosage (20kg)
1.5 mg/kg	1.5 mg/kg	Every 12h	Oral	-
Neonatal Dosage (3kg)
1.5 mg/kg	1.5 mg/kg	Every 12h	Oral	-

Drug Interactions

Unknown6 interactions

6 interactions

Major1 interaction

Minor1 interaction

Moderate3 interactions

Always consult your physician for the change of dose regimen or an alternative drug of choice that may strictly be required.

Side Effects

Triamterene in overdosage may give rise to further complications which include Megaloblastic anemia, Nephrotic diabetes insipidus , Rashes, Renal stones , Thrombocytopenic purpura .

Triamterene produces potentially life-threatening effects which include Hyperkalemia , Acute Renal Failure , Hypovolemia. Careful monitoring is needed with proper medical management.

The signs and symptoms that are produced after acute overdosage of Triamterene are GI disturbances, Muscular weakness.

Triamterene is known to cause more or less tolerable side effects which are usually transient. These include Diarrhea, Dry mouth, Headache, Nausea and vomiting, Weakness.

Warnings / Precautions

Triamterene should be used with caution in patients with diabetes, liver, kidney problems or gout. Avoid prolonged sun exposure, use sunscreen and wear protective clothing. It should be used with caution during pregnancy and lactation.

Interference in Pathology

Triamterene may interfere in the diagnosis of Fluoroscent Measurement of Quinidine .

Available Brands

Click on a strength to view available brands.

Multi-Ingredient Combinations

Tabs

50 mg

Storage Conditions

Triamterene should be stored Tab.

Drug Classification

1.16.3 — Potassium sparing diuretics

Manufacturers

Manufacturers of Triamterene in Pakistan:

GSK