amiloride hydrochloride /am′ilôr″īd/ , a potassium-sparing diuretic with antihypertensive activity. Its prototype is spironolactone. ▪ INDICATIONS: It is prescribed as an adjunct in the treatment of congestive heart failure or hypertension. It is often given with a thiazide medication. ▪ CONTRAINDICATIONS: Concurrent use of potassium-conserving agents, hyperkalemia, impaired renal function, or known hypersensitivity to this drug prohibit its use. ▪ ADVERSE EFFECTS: Among the most serious adverse reactions are headache, diarrhea, nausea and vomiting, anorexia, hyperkalemia, dizziness, encephalopathy, impotence, muscle cramps, photosensitivity, irregular heart rhythm, confusion, and paresthesia.
