Diuretics

Question 1

Loop Diuretics (-mide, -nide)

Answer 1

Bumetanide, Furosemide, Torsemide

● Mechanism of action:
○ Act on the loop of Henle to increase urine output by affecting sodium reabsorption within the nephron
○ Inhibits the sodium potassium chloride cotransporter causing sodium to be excreted in the urine therefore increasing diuresis

● Uses:
○ Increase urinary output, edema, CHF, blood pressure management

● Nursing considerations:
○ Monitor potassium levels

● These are the most effective of all diuretics

Question 2

Potassium Sparing Diuretics

Answer 2

Spironolactone, Eplerenone

● Mechanism of action:
○ Inhibit sodium and potassium exchange via sodium channels in the distal parts of the
nephron
○ This ‘spares’ potassium!!

● Uses:
○ HT, edema, swelling, hypokalemia

● Nursing considerations:
○ Monitor potassium levels

● These medications are not as strong as other diuretics, so are often combined with a loop or thiazide diuretic!

Question 3

Thiazide Diuretics (-thiazide)

Answer 3

Hydrochlorothiazide, chlorothiazide

Mechanism of action:
○ These diuretics act on the distal convoluted tubule to inhibit the sodium-chloride cotransporter
○ This increases sodium in the filtrate causing an increased amount of water reabsorption and
therefore increased urinary output

● Uses:
○ Hypertension, CHF

● Nursing Considerations:
○ Monitor electrolyte levels
○ Monitor BP