21. Diuretics Flashcards
1
Q
What is a diuretic?
A
Any substance that results in diuresis i.e. increased production of urine
2
Q
What are the different categories of diuretics?
A
Carbonic anhydrase inhibitors Loop diuretics Thiazide diuretics Potassium sparing diuretics Osmotic diuretics
3
Q
Where do carbonic anhydrase inhibitors have an effect?
A
In the proximal convoluted tubule
4
Q
How do carbonic anhydrase inhibitors work as a diuretic?
A
Inhibit the enzyme carbonic anhydrase in the PCT
Increased excretion of bicarbonate in the urine and decreased sodium absorption (H+ absorbed instead) SO can lead to metabolic acidosis
5
Q
Where do loop diuretics have an effect?
A
Loop of Henle
6
Q
How do loop diuretics work?
A
Mechanism is not quite clear
Blocks the Na+/K+/2Cl- channel in the thick ascending limb
7
Q
What do loop diuretics increase the excretion of?
A
Increased excretion of: Water Sodium Calcium Potassium Magnesium
8
Q
What is the most common loop diuretic?
A
Furosemide
