Triamterene
Triamterene is a potassium-sparing diuretic used to treat fluid retention (edema) and high blood pressure. It works by blocking sodium channels in the kidneys, helping the body remove excess fluid while retaining potassium. This medication is typically prescribed when patients need diuretic therapy but are at risk for potassium depletion.
Triamterene is a potassium-sparing diuretic that helps remove excess fluid from the body while preserving potassium levels.
This medication carries a boxed (black box) warning — the strongest type of FDA warning. Review the full prescribing information before use.
Key facts at a glance
- ATC
- C03DB02
- RxNorm
- 10763
- Generic
- Triamterene
- Class
- atc-c03
- Brands
- Dyrenium, Dyazide, Maxzide
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- oral
- Forms
- capsule, tablet
- Regions
- US, EU, CN, JP
- Monitoring
- —
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Dosage and administration
- Usual dose
- 100mg daily
- Maximum
- consult physician
- Frequency
- once daily or divided
- Instructions
- Follow physician instructions
- Duration limits
- as prescribed
- Monitoring
- standard
- Usual dose
- 2-4 mg/kg daily
- Maximum
- consult physician
- Frequency
- divided every 12 hours
- Instructions
- Follow physician instructions
- Duration limits
- as prescribed
- Monitoring
- standard
- Usual dose
- 50mg daily
- Maximum
- consult physician
- Frequency
- once daily
- Instructions
- Follow physician instructions
- Duration limits
- as prescribed
- Monitoring
- standard
Overdose information
Special Populations
9 groupspregnancy
first trimesteravoid if possible
avoid use during pregnancy unless benefits outweigh risks
regular fetal monitoring
Use of this medication in this population requires careful consideration of risks and benefits.
pregnancy
second trimesteravoid if possible
avoid use during pregnancy unless benefits outweigh risks
regular fetal monitoring and amniotic fluid assessment
Use of this medication in this population requires careful consideration of risks and benefits.
pregnancy
third trimesteravoid if possible
avoid use close to delivery
fetal monitoring and assessment of fetal growth
Use of this medication in this population requires careful consideration of risks and benefits.
lactation
breastfeedingdiscontinue breastfeeding or avoid drug
triamterene is excreted in breast milk; not recommended for breastfeeding mothers
monitor infant for signs of dehydration or electrolyte imbalance
Use of this medication in this population requires careful consideration of risks and benefits.
geriatric
elderlystart with lowest effective dose
use with caution due to increased sensitivity to drug effects; monitor renal function and electrolytes closely
regular monitoring of renal function, serum electrolytes, and blood pressure
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
pediatric_age
children under 6use reduced dose based on weight
use with caution; safety and efficacy not well established in children under 6 years
monitor renal function, electrolytes, and fluid status
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
renal_impairment
mild to moderatereduce dose and monitor closely
use with caution; dose adjustment required based on creatinine clearance
frequent monitoring of renal function and serum potassium
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
renal_impairment
severedo not use
contraindicated in patients with severe renal impairment (anuria)
not applicable
Use of this medication in this population requires careful consideration of risks and benefits.
hepatic_impairment
mild to moderateuse with caution
use with caution in patients with hepatic impairment; monitor for fluid and electrolyte balance
monitor liver function tests and electrolytes
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
Statistics and clinical data
Drug class
Triamterene is classified as a potassium-sparing diuretic (ATC code C03EA01)
FDA approval year
Triamterene was first approved by the FDA in 1984
Common therapeutic uses
Triamterene is primarily used to treat fluid retention (edema) and high blood pressure
Common brand names
Triamterene is marketed under various brand names, often in combination with hydrochlorothiazide
Triamterene is primarily used to treat edema associated with heart failure, liver cirrhosis, and kidney disease. It is also prescribed for hypertension (high blood pressure) and is often combined with thiazide diuretics to prevent potassium loss.
Triamterene acts on the distal convoluted tubule and collecting duct of the kidney by blocking epithelial sodium channels (ENaC). This reduces sodium reabsorption, leading to increased water excretion through urine. Unlike other diuretics, it preserves potassium excretion, hence the term 'potassium-sparing.'
Triamterene may cause hyperkalemia (elevated potassium levels), especially in patients with kidney disease or those taking potassium supplements. Common side effects include dizziness, headache, and photosensitivity. Patients should avoid potassium-rich foods and salt substitutes unless directed by a healthcare provider. Regular blood tests to monitor kidney function and electrolyte levels are typically required during treatment.
Contraindications
Conditions and patient states where this medication should be avoided or used with caution.
Do not use (1)
Known allergy to this medication or its components
Use caution (1)
Consult healthcare provider for benefits vs risks assessment
Official drug label
WellAlly may earn a referral fee from linked resources at no extra cost to you. Editorial content is never influenced by commercial relationships.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 24, 2026. · Read our editorial policy