BUMETANIDE IN THE TREATMENT OF HEPATIC ASCITES A Short and Long‐term Study

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Abstract
A new diuretic agent, bumetanide, has been used in the treatment of ascites in 10 patients with cirrhosis of the liver. In a short‐term study (7 days) the diuretic and natri‐uretic effect of the drug was demonstrated. Patients receiving 2 or 4 mg orally per day had highly significant negative sodium and water balance and an increased potassium excretion. In a long‐term study (198–475 days) the effect on serum electrolytes and the toxicity of the drug were estimated in 6 patients receiving up to 6 mg daily. Except for a significant increase in standard bicarbonate, no change in serum electrolyte status occurred. Azotemia was only seen in two patients with high values prior to therapy. No changes in thrombocyte count, differential WBC, urine specimen or blood glucose levels were observed. One patient developed a Stevens‐Johnson syndrome probably due to the drug. Bumetanide proved to be equal to other potent diuretics already in use in decompensated cirrhosis of the liver in respect to efficacy and side‐effects.

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