A Comparison of the Effect of Combined Frusemide and Controlled-Release Potassium Tablets (Diumide-K Continus Tablets) and Frusemide and Slow-K Tablets in Elderly Patients with Cardiac Failure

Abstract

Serum potassium levels, weight, heart function and patient's opinion of therapy were assessed in a study comparing 40 mg of frusemide and 600 mg of controlled-release potassium chloride in a combined tablet to frusemide and potassium supplements given as separate tablets in thirty elderly patients in cardiac failure. Potassium levels were significantly higher, heart function was significantly improved and patient's opinion of therapy was better after the combined tablet therapy than both pre-trial and after the separate tablet therapy. There was no significant difference in weight reduction.