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Ethacrynic Acid Coupon - Ethacrynic Acid 25mg tablet

ethacrynic acid

Generic Edecrin
Used for Edema, Heart Failure, Cirrhosis
Used for Edema, Heart Failure, Cirrhosis

Ethacrynic acid, also known by its brand name Edecrin, is a strong diuretic (water pill) for treating edema (swelling). It's a loop diuretic that can be used for people who have a sulfa allergy and can't take other diuretics in the same drug class. Ethacrynic acid (Edecrin) is a tablet that's taken by mouth, but the specific dosage depends on the medical condition that's causing the edema. Common side effects include tiredness, headache, and loss of appetite.

Reviewed by:
reviewer
Allison Gourley, PharmD
reviewer
Cydnee Ng, PharmD
Last reviewed on December 20, 2024
BasicsSide effectsPros & consPharmacist tipsFAQsWarningsDosageInteractionsCostContraindicationsAlternativesLatest newsImagesReferencesPricesMedicare
basics-icon

What is Ethacrynic acid (Edecrin)?

What is Ethacrynic acid (Edecrin) used for?

How Ethacrynic acid (Edecrin) works

Ethacrynic acid (Edecrin) is a loop diuretic (a type of water pill). It works in the kidney to remove certain electrolytes and extra fluid from your body. The electrolytes and extra fluid leave the body through your urine. This helps lessen swelling.

Drug Facts

Common BrandsEdecrin
Drug ClassDiuretic (water pill)
Controlled Substance ClassificationNot a controlled medication
Generic StatusLower-cost generic available
AvailabilityPrescription only

More on Ethacrynic acid (Edecrin) essentials

loop-diuretics: kidney dephron diagram 544579338

Loop Diuretics’ Mechanism of Action: How Do These Water Pills Work?

Written by Alex Brewer, PharmD, MBA
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What are the side effects of Ethacrynic acid (Edecrin)?

The following side effects may get better over time as your body gets used to the medication. Let your healthcare provider know immediately if you continue to experience these symptoms or if they worsen over time.

Common Side Effects

  • Headache
  • Feeling tired or weak
  • Low blood pressure (causing dizziness)
  • Ringing in the ears (tinnitus)
  • Temporary hearing loss
  • Blurry vision
  • Stomach discomfort
  • Diarrhea
  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Low appetite
  • Trouble swallowing
  • Skin rash

Other Side Effects

Serious Side Effects

Contact your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any of the following.
  • Abnormal electrolyte levels: weakness, muscle pain or cramps, dizziness, fast heartbeat, vomiting
  • Severely low blood pressure: dizziness, lightheadedness, confusion, blurry vision, fainting
  • Severe, watery diarrhea

Source: DailyMed

The following side effects have also been reported

Along with its needed effects, a medicine may cause some unwanted effects. Although not all of these side effects may occur, if they do occur they may need medical attention.

Check with your doctor immediately if any of the following side effects occur:

Rare

Bleeding gums

bloating

clay-colored stools

constipation

darkened urine

indigestion

itching

large, flat, blue or purplish patches in the skin

loss of appetite

nausea

painful knees and ankles

pains in stomach, side, or abdomen, possibly radiating to the back

pinpoint red spots on skin

raised red swellings on the skin, the buttocks, legs, or ankles

skin rash

unpleasant breath odor

vomiting of blood

yellow eyes or skin

Incidence not determined

Anxiety

black, tarry stools

blood in urine

blurred vision

cold sweats

coma

confusion

convulsions (seizures)

cool, pale skin

cough or hoarseness

depression

dizziness

dry mouth

fast heartbeat

fever with or without chills

flushed, dry skin

fruit-like breath odor

general feeling of tiredness or weakness

headache

increased hunger

increased thirst

increased urination

joint pain, stiffness, or swelling

lower back, side, or stomach pain

nausea

nervousness

nightmares

painful or difficult urination

pale skin

shakiness

shortness of breath

slurred speech

sore throat

sores, ulcers, or white spots on the lips or in the mouth

sweating

swelling of the feet or lower legs

troubled breathing

unexplained weight loss

unusual bleeding or bruising

unusual tiredness or weakness

vomiting

watery and severe diarrhea

Get emergency help immediately if any of the following symptoms of overdose occur:

Symptoms of overdose

Confusion

decreased urination

dizziness, faintness, or lightheadedness when getting up from a lying or sitting position suddenly

increase in heart rate

irregular heartbeat

muscle cramps or pain

numbness, tingling, pain, or weakness in the hands or feet

rapid breathing

sunken eyes

thirst

trembling

weakness and heaviness of the legs

wrinkled skin

Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention. These side effects may go away during treatment as your body adjusts to the medicine. Also, your health care professional may be able to tell you about ways to prevent or reduce some of these side effects. Check with your health care professional if any of the following side effects continue or are bothersome or if you have any questions about them:

Incidence not determined

Continuing ringing or buzzing or other unexplained noise in ears

difficulty swallowing

fear

feeling of constant movement of self or surroundings

feeling of fullness in the ears

general feeling of discomfort or illness

hearing loss

mild diarrhea

sensation of spinning

stomach soreness or discomfort

weight loss

Other side effects not listed may also occur in some patients. If you notice any other effects, check with your healthcare professional.

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

pros-and-cons

Pros and cons of Ethacrynic acid (Edecrin)

thumbs-up

Pros

Works well at making you urinate out extra fluids from the body to

Can take if you have an allergy to sulfa drugs

Can take if you have kidney problems (but will need close monitoring)

thumbs-down

Cons

Can cause temporary hearing loss or ringing in the ears

Can cause stomach upset and diarrhea

Not a good choice for people with serious liver problems

pharmacist-tips

Pharmacist tips for Ethacrynic acid (Edecrin)

pharmacist

  • It's recommended to take ethacrynic acid (Edecrin) after a meal.

    • Ethacrynic acid (Edecrin) is a water pill, which means that it causes you to urinate more often. It's best to take the medication in the morning or afternoon. This helps you avoid having to wake up in the middle of the night to go to the bathroom.

      • Drink enough water every day while you're taking ethacrynic acid (Edecrin). Since this medication makes you urinate more often, it can cause dehydration. Be sure not to drink an excessive amount of water to prevent dehydration, though, because this can be dangerous. Ask your prescriber about how much water you should drink to prevent dehydration without raising your risk for overhydration.

        • You might notice some ringing in your ears or hearing loss while you're taking ethacrynic acid (Edecrin). Hearing loss from the medication usually goes away after a day. But contact your prescriber if the ringing or any changes to your hearing is bothersome or concerning to you or if it doesn't go away.

          • You might feel dizzy when you stand up after sitting or lying down. This happens because ethacrynic acid (Edecrin) can lower blood pressure. Make sure to hold onto something stable and stand up slowly when you get up to prevent falling. Tell your prescriber if your dizziness doesn't go away.

            • Tell your prescriber right away if you have any weakness, muscle pain or cramps, fast heartbeat, or vomiting. Ethacrynic acid (Edecrin) can cause changes to your electrolyte levels, including sodium, potassium, and magnesium.

              faqs

              Frequently asked questions about Ethacrynic acid (Edecrin)

              Does ethacrynic acid (Edecrin) contain sulfa?
              No, ethacrynic acid (Edecrin) doesn't contain "sulfa." This is different from other loop diuretics, like furosemide (Lasix). Sulfa drugs are medications that have a chemical component called sulfonamide, which can cause allergic reactions in some people. Since ethacrynic acid (Edecrin) isn't a sulfa drug, it's safe to take if you have a sulfa allergy.
              Is ethacrynic acid (Edecrin) hard on the kidneys?
              Ethacrynic acid (Edecrin) doesn't cause kidney damage when it's taken at appropriate doses. But the risk for possible kidney damage is higher if you take a higher dose of the medication or if you're of older age. This kidney damage might happen when the medication lowers blood volume (the amount of fluid in your body) too quickly or too much. This can affect blood flow to the kidneys. Speak with your prescriber if you have concerns about how ethacrynic acid (Edecrin) will affect your kidneys.
              How long does it take for ethacrynic acid (Edecrin) to work?
              Ethacrynic acid (Edecrin) starts to work rather quickly, within 30 minutes after you take the medication by mouth. Its maximum effect happens after about 2 hours. Remember that ethacrynic acid (Edecrin) works by making you urinate. With this in mind, make sure you have access to a restroom after you take the medication.
              How long do the effects of ethacrynic acid (Edecrin) last?
              The effects of ethacrynic acid (Edecrin) typically last for about 6 to 8 hours after you take the medication. Ethacrynic acid (Edecrin) works by making you urinate. So make sure you have access to a restroom during this time.
              Is ethacrynic acid (Edecrin) a loop diuretic?
              Yes, Ethacrynic acid (Edecrin) is a loop diuretic. It's a type of water pill. The medication works in the kidneys. It helps remove certain electrolytes and extra fluid from your body by getting rid of it through your urine. This helps lessen fluid buildup and swelling in the body.
              What's the difference between ethacrynic acid (Edecrin) and furosemide?
              Both ethacrynic acid (Edecrin) and furosemide (Lasix) are loop diuretics that treat edema (fluid buildup in the body). They both work to get rid of extra fluid in the body by making you urinate it out. Ethacrynic acid (Edecrin) is generally reserved for people who have a sulfa allergy and can't take sulfa drugs like furosemide (Lasix). Speak with your healthcare professional to compare between the two medications and see which diuretic is right for you.
              Are there any over-the-counter supplements I need to take while I'm taking ethacrynic acid (Edecrin)?
              There aren't any over-the-counter (OTC) supplements that you need to take while you're taking ethacrynic acid (Edecrin). But your healthcare professional might prescribe potassium chloride, which is a potassium supplement. Ethacrynic acid (Edecrin) is a very strong diuretic that can cause low potassium. Prescription potassium supplements can help restore your potassium levels to lessen the risk of having low potassium. Discuss with your prescriber about whether you need any prescription supplements. Don't take any OTC supplements without telling your prescriber first.
              Can I take ethacrynic acid (Edecrin) while I'm pregnant?
              Speak with your prescriber about whether you can take ethacrynic acid (Edecrin) while pregnant. There isn't enough information to know whether the medication is safe to take during pregnancy. Your prescriber can discuss the risks and benefits to you and your unborn child. They can recommend safe options for you.
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              What are the risks and warnings for Ethacrynic acid (Edecrin)?

              Ethacrynic acid (Edecrin) can cause some serious health issues. This risk may be even higher for certain groups. If this worries you, talk to your doctor or pharmacist about other options.

              risk-warning

              Dehydration

              • Risk factors: High dose of ethacrynic acid (Edecrin)

                Ethacrynic acid (Edecrin) makes you urinate to get rid of extra fluids built up in the body. This can cause dehydration and make you feel thirsty.

                Drink plenty of fluids as you continue to take ethacrynic acid (Edecrin). Contact a healthcare professional (HCP) if you're very thirsty or dizzy; if you have headaches, dry skin, or muscle cramps; or if you're urinating less than usual. These are signs of possible dehydration. Your dose might need to be lowered or you might need a break from treatment.

                risk-warning

                Abnormal electrolyte levels

                • Risk factors: Current kidney problems | Taking medications that affect electrolyte levels | High dose of ethacrynic acid (Edecrin) | Strict low-salt diet

                  Ethacrynic acid (Edecrin) can change your electrolyte levels, which can include sodium, potassium, magnesium, and chloride. You might need periodic blood tests done during treatment to check your electrolyte levels.

                  Let your HCP know if you have any dry mouth, weakness, tiredness, dizziness, tingling, numbness, muscle pain or cramps, irregular heart rate, nausea, or vomiting. They can be signs that your electrolyte levels are low. Your prescriber might lower your ethacrynic acid (Edecrin) dose or suggest that you take a break from treatment.

                  risk-warning

                  Low blood pressure

                  • Risk factors: Taking other medications that lower blood pressure | Drinking alcohol | Overheating

                    Ethacrynic acid (Edecrin) can lower your blood pressure when you stand up after sitting or lying down. This can make you feel lightheaded or dizzy. You're at risk of this happening if you're also taking blood pressure medications. Talk to your prescriber if lightheadedness or dizziness when standing up doesn't go away after a few days. Your prescriber might change your ethacrynic acid (Edecrin) dose or recommend a different medication.

                    risk-warning

                    Ear damage and hearing problems

                    • Risk factors: Current kidney problems | Higher-than-recommended dose of ethacrynic acid (Edecrin) | Injection form of ethacrynic acid (Edecrin) | Taking other medications that cause hearing problems

                      Ethacrynic acid (Edecrin) can cause ringing in the ears or hearing loss. Hearing loss related to treatment with ethacrynic acid (Edecrin) is usually temporary and typically lasts up to a day. It's very rare for hearing damage or hearing loss to be permanent.

                      Discuss with your prescriber if you have concerns about the risk for hearing problems. Let your care team know if you have concerns about ringing in the ears or hearing loss while you're taking ethacrynic acid (Edecrin).

                      risk-warning

                      Severe diarrhea

                      Ethacrynic acid (Edecrin) can sometimes cause sudden severe, watery diarrhea. Tell your prescriber right away if you develop this type of diarrhea while you're taking ethacrynic acid (Edecrin). They can see whether it's from the medication and how serious it is. You might need more medical attention.

                      risk-warning

                      Possible gout

                      • Risk factors: History of gout | Current kidney problems

                        Some people who took ethacrynic acid (Edecrin) have had gout attacks. Tell your HCP if you've had gout attacks in the past or currently have gout, so that they can monitor your condition closely.

                        risk-warning

                        Higher blood sugar

                        • Risk factors: History of diabetes

                          In some rare cases, people have had higher blood sugar levels while they took ethacrynic acid (Edecrin). If you have diabetes, ask your HCP whether you should check your blood sugar more often while you're taking ethacrynic acid (Edecrin).

                          dosage

                          Ethacrynic acid (Edecrin) dosage forms

                          The average cost for 30 tablets of 25mg of Ethacrynic acid (Edecrin) is $41.08 with a free GoodRx coupon. This is 92% off the average retail price of $513.75.
                          tablet
                          Tablet
                          DosageQuantityPrice as low asPrice per unit
                          25mg30 tablets$41.08$1.37

                          Typical dosing for Ethacrynic acid (Edecrin)

                          • Adults: The typical dose ranges between 50 mg and 200 mg by mouth daily, sometimes split into two doses per day. Your healthcare professional might adjust the dose depending on what your individual situation is like and how well the medication works to lessen swelling.

                          • Children: The typical starting dose is 25 mg by mouth once daily. The prescriber will adjust the dose based on how well the medication is working for your child.

                          Ethacrynic acid (Edecrin) is also available as an injection that's given through the vein (intravenously or IV). The injection form is for people who can't take medications by mouth or are in urgent situations. It's given by a healthcare professional in a hospital setting.

                          interactions

                          Interactions between Ethacrynic acid (Edecrin) and other drugs

                          Ethacrynic acid (Edecrin) may interact with certain medications or supplements. Always let your doctor and pharmacist know about any other medications or supplements (including prescribed and over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and dietary or herbal supplements) that you are currently taking. The list below does not include all possible drug interactions with Ethacrynic acid (Edecrin). Please note that only the generic name of each medication is listed below.

                          Using this medicine with any of the following medicines is not recommended. Your doctor may decide not to treat you with this medication or change some of the other medicines you take.

                          Using this medicine with any of the following medicines is usually not recommended, but may be required in some cases. If both medicines are prescribed together, your doctor may change the dose or how often you use one or both of the medicines.

                          Using this medicine with any of the following medicines may cause an increased risk of certain side effects, but using both drugs may be the best treatment for you. If both medicines are prescribed together, your doctor may change the dose or how often you use one or both of the medicines.

                          drug-cost

                          How much does Ethacrynic acid (Edecrin) cost?

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                          contraindications-icon

                          Ethacrynic acid (Edecrin) contraindications

                          Contraindications are specific health conditions or situations in which a person should not take a medication due to safety concerns. If you have any of the following conditions or if any of the following apply to you, let your healthcare provider know because Ethacrynic acid (Edecrin) will not be safe for you to take.

                          • Can't urinate at all (i.e., not making any urine)

                          • Severe, watery diarrhea

                          • Infants

                          alternatives

                          What are alternatives to Ethacrynic acid (Edecrin)?

                          There are a number of medications that your doctor can prescribe in place of Ethacrynic acid (Edecrin). Compare a few possible alternatives below.
                          Ethacrynic acid (Edecrin)
                          Used for:
                          $41.08 Lowest GoodRx priceView Prices
                          Furosemide (Lasix)
                          Used for:
                          $1.80 Lowest GoodRx priceView Prices
                          Torsemide
                          Used for:

                          • Swelling due to heart failure or kidney disease

                          • Swelling due to liver disease (taken with other medications) - generic ethacrynic acid (Edecrin) only

                          • High blood pressure - generic ethacrynic acid (Edecrin) only

                          $9.00 Lowest GoodRx priceView Prices
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                          Ethacrynic acid (Edecrin) images

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                          This medicine is White, Oblong, Scored Tablet Imprinted With "Usl 690".White Oblong Usl 690 - Ethacrynic Acid 25mg Tablet
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                          White Oblong Vrx 205 And Edecrin - Ethacrynic Acid 25mg Tablet
                          This medicine is White, Oblong, Scored Tablet Imprinted With "Edecrin" And "Vrx 205".White Oblong Vrx 205 And Edecrin - Ethacrynic Acid 25mg Tablet

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                          References

                          Best studies we found

                          Aribo, C., et al. (2023). Ethacrynic acid. StatPearls.

                          Ding, D., et al. (2016). Ototoxic effects and mechanisms of loop diuretics. Journal of Otology.

                          MedlinePlus. (2019). Lymphedema.

                          View All References (3)

                          MedlinePlus. (2023). Uric acid - blood.

                          Mylan Institutional LLC. (2021). Ethacrynic sodium injection, powder, lyophilized, for solution [package insert]. DailyMed.

                          TRUPHARMA LLC. (2024). Ethacrynic acid tablet [package insert]. DailyMed.

                          GoodRx Health has strict sourcing policies and relies on primary sources such as medical organizations, governmental agencies, academic institutions, and peer-reviewed scientific journals. Learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate, thorough, and unbiased by reading our editorial guidelines.
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