Indications 

Demadex (Torsemide) is a medication used to treat conditions such as heart failure, liver disease, and kidney disease, which cause fluid retention in the body (edema). It helps reduce symptoms like shortness of breath and swelling in the arms, legs, and abdomen. This drug is prescribed to treat high blood pressure to prevent strokes, heart attacks, and kidney problems. Torsemide is classified as a diuretic or “water pill” that increases urine production, aiding the elimination of excess water and salt from the body. 

Uses and Dosage 

This oral medication can be taken with or without food, typicially once daily, or as directed by your doctor. It is recomended to avoid taking Demadex within four hours of the time you go to sleep to reduce the need to get up to urinate.  

Demadex dosages are based on several factors including medical condition and response to treatment. Do not increase your dosage or take it more often without consulting your doctor.  

For the best results, take this medication consistently, Take Demadex at the same time daily to help remember. Do not stop taking this medication even if you feel well as many people with high blood pressure may not feel it’s effects.  

Avoid taking Demadex within 1 hour before and 4-6 hours after medications for lowering cholesterol to avoid possible interactions. Consult your doctor if you have any questions. 

It may take approximately 4-6 weeks before effects of this medication are noticable; it may take up to 12 weeks in some cases. Contact your doctor if your condition does not improve or worsens.  

Side Effects 

Allergic Reactions

Seek emergency medical help immediately if you experience any signs of an allergic reaction, such as:  

• Hives 
• Difficulty breathing 
• Swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat 

Severe Side Effects

Contact your doctor immediately if you have any of the following: 

• Feeling light-headed or a sensation of fainting 
• Sudden hearing loss or ringing in the ears 
• Kidney problems, including:  
  • Decreased or painful urination 
  • Swelling in the feet or ankles 
  • Fatigue 
  • Shortness of breath 
• Low magnesium levels, which may manifest as:  
  • Dizziness 
  • Irregular heartbeats 
  • Jitteriness 
  • Muscle cramps or spasms 
  • Coughing 
  • Sensation of choking 
• Low potassium levels, characterized by:  
  • Leg cramps 
  • Constipation 
  • Irregular heartbeats 
  • Chest fluttering 
  • Increased thirst or urination 
  • Numbness or tingling 
  • Muscle weakness 
  • Limp feeling 
• Low sodium levels are indicated by symptoms such as:  
  • Headache 
  • Confusion 
  • Slurred speech 
  • Severe weakness 
  • Vomiting 
  • Loss of coordination 
  • Unsteady gait 

Common Side Effects  

• Increased urination  
• Headache 

Cautions 

Before taking torsemide, inform your doctor or pharmacist if you have any allergies or are allergic. Inactive ingredients in the medication may cause allergic reactions or other issues, so this is advisable to consult your pharmacist for more information. 

Inform your doctor or pharmacist about your medical history, especially if you have kidney problems, liver problems, a condition that prevents urine production, or gout. 

If you have diabetes, torsemide may occasionally affect your blood sugar levels. Regularly check your blood sugar as directed by your doctor and share the results with them. Your doctor may need to adjust your diabetes medication, exercise routine, or diet accordingly. 

Torsemide may lower the potassium levels in your blood. Your doctor may advise you to include potassium-rich foods in your diet (such as bananas or orange juice) or prescribe potassium supplements to prevent potassium loss. Ask your doctor for more detailed information. 

This medication may cause dizziness. Consuming alcohol or marijuana (cannabis) can intensify this dizziness. Avoid driving, operating machinery, or engaging in activities that require alertness until you can safely do so. Limit alcoholic beverages. If you are using marijuana (cannabis), discuss it with your doctor.