See the DrugPatentWatch profile for Amiloride
Amiloride is manufactured by several pharmaceutical companies. In the United States, the drug is available from manufacturers including, but not limited to, Accord Healthcare, Apotex, Inc., and Breckenridge Pharmaceutical, Inc. [1].
What is Amiloride used for?
Amiloride is a potassium-sparing diuretic used to treat high blood pressure and congestive heart failure. It works by helping the kidneys get rid of excess sodium and water, while also conserving potassium [2].
How does Amiloride work?
Amiloride acts on the distal tubules of the kidneys. It specifically blocks epithelial sodium channels (ENaC), which are responsible for sodium reabsorption. By inhibiting these channels, amiloride reduces sodium and water reabsorption, leading to increased urine output, and consequently lowering blood pressure and reducing edema. Its effect on potassium is to prevent its excretion, thus maintaining normal potassium levels in the body, unlike other diuretics that can cause potassium loss [3].
When did Amiloride become available?
Amiloride was first approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 1983 [4].
Can Amiloride be found in combination drugs?
Yes, Amiloride is often prescribed in combination with other diuretics, such as hydrochlorothiazide. These combination products are formulated to enhance the diuretic effect while counteracting the potassium-wasting properties of hydrochlorothiazide. For example, Amiloride Hydrochloride and Hydrochlorothiazide Tablets are available from various manufacturers [1].
Who makes Amiloride and Hydrochlorothiazide combination pills?
Manufacturers producing the combination of Amiloride Hydrochloride and Hydrochlorothiazide include Accord Healthcare, Apotex, Inc., and Breckenridge Pharmaceutical, Inc., among others [1].
What are the potential side effects of Amiloride?
Common side effects of Amiloride include dizziness, lightheadedness, nausea, and diarrhea. A more serious concern is hyperkalemia, or dangerously high levels of potassium in the blood, which can lead to irregular heartbeat, muscle weakness, or paralysis [2]. Patients taking Amiloride are advised to have their potassium levels monitored regularly by a healthcare provider [3].
How does Amiloride compare to other diuretics?
Amiloride is classified as a potassium-sparing diuretic, distinguishing it from other classes of diuretics like thiazides or loop diuretics, which can lead to potassium loss. Its primary advantage is its ability to prevent hypokalemia (low potassium levels) while still promoting diuresis. This makes it useful for patients who are at risk of or experiencing potassium depletion from other diuretic therapies [3].
What is the patent status of Amiloride?
As Amiloride has been approved and available for many years, its original patents have long expired. This allows for the manufacturing of generic versions of the drug by multiple companies. Information on specific patent expirations for older drugs like Amiloride can often be found through specialized patent databases [5].
Sources:
[1] https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/
[2] https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/amiloride-oral-route/proper-use/drg-20071459
[3] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK534875/
[4] https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/scripts/cder/daf/index.cfm?fuseaction=certain.overview&DrugNameID=669
[5] https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/