US Brand Name: {Bumex} (Bumetanide)
Pharmacologic category:
{Loop diuretic} Other medications in this category: {Furosemide} ({Lasix}), {Torsemide} ({Demadex}), and {Ethacrynic Acid} ({Edecrin}).
Diseases Treated, Dosing, and Treatment Duration
{Edema} (fluid retention) associated with {congestive heart failure}: Initial dose of 0.5-2 mg/day, adjust as needed based on clinical response. Usually given once or twice daily.
{Edema} associated with {liver cirrhosis}: 1-2 mg/day, adjust as needed based on clinical response. Given once or twice daily.
{Edema} associated with {kidney disease} ({nephrotic syndrome}): 1-2 mg/day, adjust as needed based on clinical response. Given once or twice daily.
{Acute pulmonary edema}: 0.5-1 mg IV/IM, may repeat after 2-3 hours if needed.
{Hypertension} (high blood pressure): 0.5-2 mg/day, adjust as needed based on clinical response. Given once daily.
{Ascites}: 0.5-2 mg/day, adjust as needed based on clinical response. Given once or twice daily.
Dosage Forms and strengths:
Tablets: 0.5 mg, 1 mg, and 2 mg
Administration Instructions:
Take {Bumetanide} by mouth with or without food, as directed by your healthcare provider. If taken twice daily, take the second dose no later than the late afternoon to minimize nighttime urination.
Adverse Reactions and Side Effects:
{Dizziness} (3-10%): A sensation of lightheadedness or feeling faint, which may increase the risk of falls. {Headache} (2-5%): Pain or discomfort in the head or neck region. {Nausea} (1-5%): An unpleasant sensation in the stomach, often accompanied by a feeling of needing to vomit. {Hypokalemia} (1-5%): Low potassium levels in the blood, which can cause muscle cramps, weakness, or irregular heartbeats. {Hypotension} (1-5%): Low blood pressure, which can cause dizziness, lightheadedness, and fainting. {Dehydration} (less than 1%): Excessive loss of body water, which can cause dizziness, weakness, or electrolyte imbalances.
Contraindications:
Known hypersensitivity to {Bumetanide} or sulfonamides {Anuria} (inability to produce urine) Severe hepatic impairment or hepatic coma Severe electrolyte imbalances
Drug to Drug Interactions:
{Digoxin} ({Lanoxin}): Increased risk of digoxin toxicity. {Lithium} ({Lithobid}, {Eskalith}): Increased risk of lithium toxicity. {Aminoglycoside} antibiotics (e.g., {gentamicin}, {tobramycin}): Increased risk of {ototoxicity} (hearing damage) and {nephrotoxicity} (kidney damage). {Angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors} (e.g., {lisinopril}, {enalapril}) or {angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs)} (e.g., {losartan}, {valsartan}): Increased risk of low blood pressure and kidney dysfunction.
Pregnancy:
{Bumetanide} is classified as a Pregnancy Category C drug. It should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus.
Breastfeeding:
{Bumetanide} is excreted in breast milk. Due to the potential for serious adverse reactions in nursing infants, a decision should be made whether to discontinue breastfeeding or discontinue the drug, taking into account the importance of the drug to the mother.
Estimated price of a 30-day supply:
The estimated price of a 30-day supply of {Bumetanide} 1 mg, assuming the patient doesn’t have insurance and is utilizing a GoodRx coupon, is approximately $10-$20. Prices may vary depending on the pharmacy, dosage, and location.
Legal Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and not intended as medical advice. Always consult a healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment. Reliance on the information provided here is at your own risk.