Triamterene

Triamterene is a medication that is prescribed for treating fluid retention. As a diuretic, it works to decrease blood volume by increasing the amount of water removed from the blood. Triamterene capsules, which are available in two strengths, are generally taken twice a day after meals. Side effects that have been reported with the drug include weakness, dry mouth, and headache.

 

What Is Triamterene?

Triamterene (Dyrenium®) is a prescription medicine that is used as a diuretic for treating fluid retention. It is known as a "potassium-sparing" diuretic and is used to treat water retention (edema) due to various causes. Usually, triamterene is used in combination with hydrochlorothiazide, another diuretic (see Triamterene-HCTZ for more information). It is much less common to use triamterene alone.
 
(Click What Is Triamterene Used For? for more information, including possible off-label uses.)
 

Who Makes Triamterene?

It is made by Wellspring Pharmaceutical Corporation.
 

How Does It Work?

Triamterene is a diuretic, which is commonly referred to as a "water pill." While most diuretics can cause low levels of potassium in the blood, triamterene is a "potassium-sparing" diuretic, meaning that it can actually increase potassium levels in the blood.
 
The medication works by increasing the amount of salt and water that the kidneys remove from the blood. This extra salt and water is then passed out through the urine. By increasing the amount of water removed from the blood, it causes a decrease in blood volume. As a result, the drug can help with water retention.
 

When and How to Take Triamterene

General considerations for when and how to take the medication include the following:
 
  • It comes in capsule form. It is usually taken by mouth twice a day after meals.
     
  • Triamterene should be taken at the same times each day to maintain an even level in your blood. However, some people do not need to take it every day, especially those who are taking the medication for fluid retention.
     
  • Because the medication increases urination, it is best to take your last dose of the day before 6 p.m. (to avoid needing to get up to use the bathroom throughout the night), unless your healthcare provider instructs you otherwise.
     
  • For the medication to work properly, it must be taken as prescribed. It will not work if you stop taking it.
     

Dosage Information

The dosage that your healthcare provider recommends will vary, depending on a number of factors, including:
 
  • Other medical conditions you may have
  • Other medications you may be taking
  • How you respond to triamterene.
     
As with any medication, do not adjust your dose unless your healthcare provider specifically instructs you to do so.
 
(Click Triamterene Dosing for more information.)
 

Side Effects of Triamterene

As with any medicine, side effects are possible. However, not everyone who takes the drug will experience side effects. In fact, most people tolerate it well. If side effects do occur, in most cases, they are minor and either require no treatment or can easily be treated by you or your healthcare provider. Serious side effects are less common.
 
A few of the possible side effects of triamterene include:
 
(Click Triamterene Side Effects to learn more, including potentially serious side effects that you should report immediately to your healthcare provider.)
 

Drug Interactions

Triamterene can potentially interact with a number of medicines (see Drug Interactions With Triamterene).
 

What Should I Tell My Healthcare Provider?

You should talk with your healthcare provider prior to taking this medication if you have:
 
  • Liver disease, including cirrhosis
  • Kidney disease or kidney failure
  • Asthma
  • A history of kidney stones
  • Diabetes
  • Systemic lupus erythematosus (lupus or SLE)
  • Gout
  • Fluid or electrolyte problems
  • Any allergies, including allergies to sulfa drugs, foods, dyes, or preservatives.
     
Also, let your healthcare provider know if you are:
 
Tell your healthcare provider about all medicines you are currently taking, including prescription and non-prescription medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements.
 
(Click Precautions and Warnings With Triamterene to learn more, including information on who should not take the drug.)
 

What If I Take an Overdose?

People who take too much triamterene may have overdose symptoms that could include:
 
  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Weakness
  • High potassium levels in the blood.
     
If you happen to overdose, seek immediate medical attention.
 
(Click Dyrenium Overdose for more information.)
 

How Should It Be Stored?

Triamterene should be stored at room temperature, away from moisture and heat. The capsules should be kept in an airtight container.
 
Keep triamterene and all medications out of the reach of children.
 

What Should I Do If I Miss a Dose of Triamterene?

If you do not take your triamterene as scheduled, take your missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed one and continue with normal dosing. Do not take a double dose.
 

Strengths

Triamterene capsules are available in the following strengths:
 
  • Triamterene 50 mg capsules
  • Triamterene 100 mg capsules.
     
Several medications are available that combine triamterene with hydrochlorothiazide (see Triamterene-HCTZ for more information).
 

Generic Triamterene

Although the patent for triamterene expired some time ago, no manufacturers have chosen to make generic triamterene.
 
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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;