Diuretics Flashcards
What is the true function of Diuretics?
Removal of sodium, but some patients will refer to it as a water pill
What are indications for Diuretics?
CHF Edema Pulmonary Edema Liver Disease Renal Disease HTN Conditions that cause Hyperkalemia
What are the considerations of children and elderly taking diuretics?
Children-most don’t take diuretics except for those heart defects (may need resuscitative equipment)
Elderly-Start at lowest dose possible
What is the most commonly used Thiazide diuretic and prototype for this exam?
Hydrochlorothiazide=fairly mild diuretic
Used in combo with other diuretics
Patients with normal renal function
What is the action of Hydrochlorothiazide (Thiazide diuretic)?
Blocks Cl pump which allows it to be excreted along with Na
Urine Will be very sodium rich
What is the duration and contraindications of Thiazide diuretics?
6-12 hours
Bipolar disorders
When are thiazide diuretics cautioned?
Diabetes-can cause hyperglycemia so monitoring blood sugar is necessary
What are adverse effects of thiazide diuretics?
Alkaline Urine-patient who is prone to bladder infections or urinary tract infections
What is the most commonly used loop diuretic?
Furosemide (Lasix)
less powerful than new drugs
greater margin of safety
In cases of pulmonary edema how long will it take to gt fluid out of the lungs?
several hours (less effective as antihypertensive)
What is the action and indications of Loop Diuretics?
Block the Cl loop in the ascending nephron loop allowing it to be excreted with Na
-Acute Pulmonary Edema
Acute CHF
etc.
What is the half-life of Furosemide?
30mins-1hr30mins
When is Furosemide cautioned?
Diabetes
Ototoxicity-can cause deafness but can be reversible if stopped
Dangerous Drug interactions with Furosemide
With Cistapline increases risk for deafness
At risk for digtoxicity if due to hypokalemia
What is the action and indications of Spironolactone (K sparing diuretic)?
Causes loss of sodium while retaining K
Monitor K levels, used in patients at risk for hypokalemia
