Bumetanide Tips from Pharmacists

• The effects of bumetanide last for 4-6 hours. Take your bumetanide oral tablet in the morning or afternoon. Avoid taking it close to bedtime as this can cause nighttime awakenings to urinate.

• Bumetanide can cause lightheadedness, dizziness, and fainting, especially when you first start taking it, while your body adjusts to the medicine. Make sure you get up slowly from a sitting or lying position to prevent falls. Avoid drinking alcohol while on this medication. Tell your healthcare professional if you develop lightheadedness. Your doctor may lower your bumetanide dose.

• Follow your doctor’s instructions on weighing yourself. This will help you track how bumetanide is working to remove excess fluid from your body.

• Call your doctor right away or seek emergency medical attention if you develop signs of dehydration or electrolyte depletion, such as weakness, dizziness, muscle cramps, or fast heartbeat. 

• Tell your doctor if you have vomiting, diarrhea, excessive sweating, or are unable to drink fluids. This can increase the risk of dehydration while on bumetanide