Renal Drugs

Question 0

Name 3 side effects associated with thiazide diuretics. (3)

Answer 0

Postural hypotension, hypokalaemia, hyponatraemia, hypomagnesaemia, hypecalcaemia, hyperlipidaemia, gout, anorexia, diarrhoea.

Question 1

What is the mechanism of action of thiazides? (2)

Answer 1

Inhibits sodium reabsorption at the beginning of the DCT.

also reduces peripheral vascular resistance

Question 2

What is the mechanism of loop diuretics? (2)

Answer 2

Inhibition of sodium-potassium-chloride channel in the thick ascending limb of loop of Henle.
Also increases venous capacitance.

Question 3

Name 3 side effects of loop diuretics. (3)

Answer 3

Hypokalaemia, hypomagnesaemia, hyponatraemia, gout, hyperglycaemia, gi disturbance, tinnitus, deafness.

Rarely acute pancreatitis, bone marrow suppression, allergic tuberointerstitial nephritis.

Question 4

What is the mechanism of action of potassium sparing diuretics? (2)

Answer 4

Inhibition of sodium reabsorption in the cortical collecting tubule.
Amiloride directly decrease sodium channel activity.
Spironolactone inhibits aldosterone.

Question 5

What is the main indication for spironolactone? (1)

Answer 5

Ascites and oedema associated with severe liver disease.

Question 6

Name 2 side effects of potassium sparing diuretics. (2)

Answer 6

GI distrubances, hyperkalaemia, hyponatraemia, gynaecomastia.