Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, warnings, and more.
Key takeaways
Triamterene (Dyrenium) and eplerenone (Inspra) are both medications that help manage fluid levels in your body, but they work differently and are used for different conditions. Triamterene is a potassium-sparing diuretic that helps reduce swelling (edema) by removing extra salt and fluid from your body. It's usually taken twice a day and is often combined with other medications. On the other hand, eplerenone is an aldosterone receptor antagonist that helps lower blood pressure and improve survival after a heart attack by blocking a hormone that raises blood pressure. Eplerenone is typically taken once a day and can be used alone or with other medications. While both medications can cause high potassium levels, eplerenone is also associated with fewer hormone-related side effects compared to similar medications like spironolactone. Additionally, eplerenone is not recommended for people with severe kidney problems, whereas triamterene can increase the risk of kidney stones and gout.
Triamterene (Dyrenium)
Eplerenone (Inspra)
Triamterene (Dyrenium)
Eplerenone (Inspra)
Summary of Triamterene vs. Inspra
Summary for Diuretic (water pill)
Prescription only
Triamterene, also known by its brand name Dyrenium, is a water pill called a potassium-sparing diuretic. It's used to treat swelling due to fluid buildup in the body in adults. This medication also helps lower the risk of low potassium levels when you take it with other types of water pills. Triamterene (Dyrenium) is available as a brand-name and generic medication. It's a capsule that's taken by mouth twice per day after a meal. The dosage is specific to your situation. Side effects aren't common but can include dizziness and headache.
Summary for Aldosterone receptor antagonist
Prescription only
Eplerenone (Inspra) is a medication that’s used to treat high blood pressure and improve survival among people with heart failure after a heart attack. It comes as an oral tablet that can be taken alone or in combination with other medications. Look out for side effects including dizziness, nausea, cough, and shortness of breath. Eplerenone (Inspra) is available as a generic tablet and also under the brand name Inspra.