Bumetanide

Certain NSAIDS are known to have antagonistic effects on the action of diuretics.

The dose of bumetanide may need to be adjusted when given in conjunction with cardiac glycosides, such as digitalis, since the increased potassium excretion resulting from bumetanide administration can cause an increased sensitivity of the myocardium to the toxic effects of glycosides.

When bumetanide is used to treat oedema in hypertensive patients the dose of antihypertensive drug may need to be adjusted as bumetanide may potentiate its effects.

Bumetanide should not be given concurrently with certain antibiotics and antifungals, such as cephaloridine or amphotericin as it could lead to increased toxic effects from these antibiotics and antifungals.

Bumetanide may precipitate encephalopathy in patients with hepatic impairment.

Bumetanide may increase uric acid. Blood glucose and blood uric acid should be measured periodically, especially in diabetics and those suspected of latent diabetes and in patients with gout.

Although tests in animals have shown no teratogenic effects, there are no data on its effect on pregnant humans. Therefore it is advisable to avoid taking this drug during the first trimester.

There are no data on breast-feeding and therefore nursing mothers should stop bumetanide treatment during breast-feeding unless the drug is essential. In such cases, the infant should be observed for any adverse effects.

Bumetanide has no known effect on the ability to drive or operate machinery.