diuretics review - Sheet1 Flashcards
What is the major electrolyte lost with diuretics?
Potassium (K+), which affects cardiac conduction.
How do most diuretics work?
They block Na+ & Cl- reabsorption, changing the osmotic gradient, causing more water & solutes (Na+, K+) to stay in the nephrons and be excreted in urine.
Why should diuretics be given early in the day?
To prevent nocturia; typical dosing is at 0800 & 1400.
What are diuretics used for?
Edema (e.g., pulmonary edema, heart failure) and hypertension (HTN).
What are important things to monitor when using diuretics?
Dehydration, hypovolemia, hypotension, electrolytes, hyperglycemia (diabetes), and hyperuricemia (gout).
Which medications require caution when using diuretics?
Digoxin, ototoxic drugs, NSAIDs (block diuretic effects), lithium (behaves like sodium).
Which diuretic class is the most effective?
Loop diuretics (e.g., furosemide).
Can loop diuretics be used in renal impairment?
Yes, they work even with renal impairment.
What are key adverse effects of loop diuretics?
Hypokalemia, ototoxicity, dehydration, hypotension.
Which diuretic class is the most commonly prescribed?
Thiazide & thiazide-like diuretics (e.g., HCTZ, chlorthalidone).
Do thiazide diuretics work in renal impairment?
No, they do not work in renal impairment.
Why are thiazide diuretics commonly used for hypertension?
They lower the amount of fluid in the vessels, reducing blood pressure.
What are key adverse effects of thiazide diuretics?
Hypokalemia, hypotension.
What is the purpose of potassium-sparing diuretics?
To retain potassium, often combined with loop or thiazide diuretics.
What are key adverse effects of potassium-sparing diuretics?
Hyperkalemia, endocrine effects (e.g., gynecomastia, acne).
