Storage
Store at room temperature
Synonyms
Luprac; Torasemida; Torasemidum; BM-02015; AC-4464; Torasemide anhydrous
Molecular Formula
C16H20N4O3S
Smiles
CC1=CC(=CC=C1)NC2=C(C=NC=C2)S(=O)(=O)NC(=O)NC(C)C
Appearance
White to off-white crystalline powder
General Description
Torsemide is a high-ceiling loop diuretic with a longer duration of action and greater oral bioavailability compared to furosemide. The drug is a pyridine-sulfonylurea derivative that acts on the thick ascending limb of the loop of Henle.
Mechanism of Action
Torsemide reversibly inhibits the Na+-K+-2Cl- cotransporter (NKCC2) on the luminal membrane of the thick ascending limb, blocking sodium, potassium, and chloride reabsorption. This action generates a potent diuresis and reduces medullary hypertonicity, impairing urinary concentrating ability. Unlike furosemide, torsemide has a prolonged half-life (3-6 hours) and is not subject to significant food-related absorption variability.
Application
Torsemide is indicated for the treatment of edema associated with congestive heart failure, hepatic cirrhosis, and renal disease, as well as for hypertension. Its superior bioavailability makes it more reliable in patients with edema-related gut wall edema. Some studies suggest lower mortality and hospitalization rates when torsemide is used in heart failure compared to furosemide, though it is not yet universally preferred.
In the TRANSFORM‑HF trial, 2859 hospitalized heart failure patients were randomized to torsemide or furosemide. This prespecified secondary analysis examined Kansas City Cardiomyopathy Questionnaire Clinical Summary Score (KCCQ‑CSS) and Patient Health Questionnaire‑2 scores over 12 months. At 1, 6, and 12 months, there were no significant differences between groups in KCCQ‑CSS change (adjusted mean difference at 12 months: 0.06, 95% CI –2.26 to 2.37) or in the proportion of patients with PHQ‑2 ≥3. Results were consistent across ejection fraction phenotypes, NYHA class, and baseline diuretic use. Torsemide did not improve symptoms or quality of life compared with furosemide.
Fig. 1 Kansas City Cardiomyopathy Questionnaire – Clinical Summary Scores (KCCQ-CSS) and Patient Health Questionnarie-2 Scores (PHQ-2) Over 12-months. (Greene SJ, et al., 2023)
References
- Greene SJ, et al. Effect of Torsemide Versus Furosemide on Symptoms and Quality of Life Among Patients Hospitalized for Heart Failure: The TRANSFORM-HF Randomized Clinical Trial. Circulation. 2023;148(2):124-134.
Does Torsemide require protection from light during long-term storage?
Yes, it is photosensitive. UV light can cause photodegradation and discoloration. Store in light-resistant containers, preferably amber glass or opaque HDPE.
What is the recommended storage temperature for Torsemide?
Store at controlled room temperature (15-25°C). Avoid temperatures above 30°C, which can accelerate hydrolysis of the sulfonylurea group.
Is Torsemide hygroscopic, and how is this managed?
It exhibits low hygroscopicity. However, under high humidity (>70% RH), it may absorb moisture and clump. Storage with desiccant is recommended for long-term stability.
How is the impurity 4-(3-methylphenyl)aminopyridine-3-sulfonamide monitored?
This process-related impurity is quantified using a stability-indicating HPLC method, ensuring it remains below USP/EP limits throughout shelf life.