Diuretics

Question 1

Where does Acetazolamide target?

Answer 1

Proximal tubule which decreases sodium with minimal effect on BP

Help reduce eye pressure and prevent altitude sickness symptoms.

Question 2

What is the purpose of diuretics?

Answer 2

Diuretics work by increasing urine production, helping the body eliminate excess water and salts, reducing BP.

Question 3

Where do loop diuretics target and what are they?

Answer 3

Loop of Henle: Blocks sodium and chloride reabsorption leading to potent diuresis; effective for those with low kidney function.

Furosemide, Bumetanide

Question 4

What do thiazide diuretics target?

Answer 4

Distal tubule: Commonly used for BP control; less potent than loop diuretics.
They are first line in HTN treatment.

Hydrochlorothiazide

Question 5

What do potassium sparing diuretics target?

Answer 5

Collecting duct: prevents potassium loss by blocking aldosterone, a hormone that increases sodium reabsorption.

Question 6

What is Mannitol used for?

Answer 6

Osmotic diuretic used mainly for acute situations such as intracranial pressure.

Question 7

What are contraindications for taking diuretics?

Answer 7

Kidney failure
Hyperkalemia
Pregnancy
Severe Liver Disease

Question 8

What are drug-drug interactions should be monitored when taking diuretics?

Answer 8

NSAIDs (kidneys)
ACE/ARBs (potassium)
Lithium
Aminoglycosides (hearing loss)