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Bumex
Bumex is a medication that is prescribed for the treatment of fluid retention. A type of diuretic, it works by increasing the amount of salt and water the kidneys remove from the blood, which causes a decrease in blood volume. Bumex comes in tablet form and is usually taken once a day. Potential side effects may include an electrolyte imbalance, dizziness, and nausea.
Bumex® (bumetanide) is a prescription medicine that is used to treat fluid retention due to several causes. It is part of a class of medicines known as diuretics.
(Click Bumex Uses for more information on what the drug is used for, including possible off-label uses.)
Brand-name Bumex is made by Hoffmann-La Roche. Generic Bumex is made by several manufacturers.
Bumex is a diuretic, which is commonly referred to as a "water pill." Specifically, Bumex is known as a "loop diuretic," named after the part of the kidneys it affects (the loop of Henle). It works by increasing the amount of salt and water the kidneys remove from the blood. This extra salt and water is passed out through the urine. By increasing the amount of water removed from the blood, it causes a decrease in blood volume. Because of this effect, the medication can help with water retention.
General considerations for when and how to take the medication include the following:
- Bumex comes in tablet form. It is taken by mouth, usually once a day.
- You can take it with or without food.
- The medication should be taken at the same times each day to maintain an even level in your blood. However, some people do not need to take it every day, especially those taking it for fluid retention.
- Because this drug increases urination, it is best to take it in the morning (to avoid getting up to use the bathroom throughout the night), unless your healthcare provider instructs you otherwise.
- For the medication to work properly, it must be taken as prescribed. It will not work if you stop taking it.
Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD