A Guide to Diuretics

A diuretic is a type of medication that is used to increase the rate of urine production by the kidneys. There are several types of diuretics, all of which work in a slightly different fashion and have different side effects and clinical uses. All diuretics are used to aid in the elimination of excess fluid from the body.

People with high blood pressure, heart failure and certain types of kidney problems are the most likely to be using a diuretic. The specific type of diuretic is chosen by a doctor based on the individual needs of the patient. Let's take a look at some of the major categories of diuretics and how they function.

THIAZIDES

The most common medication in this category is called hydrochlorothiazide. They function in at part of the kidney known as the distal convoluted tubule. More specifically, they block the ability of the kidney to reabsorb sodium (Na) and chloride (Cl) from the urine as it passes through the kidney. Blocking this Na/Cl pump keeps water from being reabsorbed by the kidney and allowing the water to pass in to the urine.

Of course, like all medications, thiazides can have unwanted effects. Due to the mechanism by which they work, thiazides can cause your body to lose potassium. A deficiency of potassium is known as hypokalemia and can be dangerous if it becomes severe. This effect can sometimes be reduced by using an ACE inhibitor in combination with the thiazide, as ACE inhibitors are also used for reasons and cause the body to increase potassium levels, thus causing the potassium effects to cancel out. Thiazides can also raise lipid levels, and have been associated with increased risk of atherosclerosis with long term use.

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