Ethacrynic Acid

Ethacrynic acid is a type of diuretic used for the treatment of fluid retention. It works by increasing the amount of salt and water that is removed from the blood, which causes a decrease in blood volume. The medication comes in tablet form, and is usually taken once or twice a day. Side effects can include nausea, electrolyte imbalance, headache, and hearing problems.

Ethacrynic Acid (Edecrin)

What Is Ethacrynic Acid?

Ethacrynic acid (Edecrin^®) 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. Because ethacrynic acid is a strong diuretic, it is usually reserved for serious situations when a large amount of fluid needs to be removed from the body.

(Click What Is Ethacrynic Acid Used For? for more information, including possible off-label uses of the drug.)

Are There Side Effects?

As with any medicine, side effects are possible with ethacrynic acid. However, not everyone who takes the medication will experience side effects. In fact, most people tolerate it quite well.

When side effects do occur, in most cases, they are minor and either require no treatment or can easily be treated by you or your healthcare provider. Serious side effects are less common.

A few possible side effects of ethacrynic acid include:

Electrolyte imbalance
Headache
Confusion
Hearing problems
High blood sugar (hyperglycemia) or low blood sugar (hypoglycemia)
Nausea
Vomiting
Diarrhea.

(Click Side Effects of Ethacrynic Acid to learn more, including potentially serious side effects that you should report immediately to your healthcare provider.)

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