Diuretics: Mechanisms, Types, and Indications

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Questions and Answers

Which of the following accurately describes the mechanism of action of loop diuretics in the kidneys?

  • Blocking sodium reabsorption in the distal convoluted tubule.
  • Reducing aldosterone activity in the collecting tubules to increase potassium reabsorption.
  • Increasing water reabsorption in the collecting duct by antagonizing ADH.
  • Inhibiting the Na+/K+/2Cl- cotransporter in the ascending limb of the loop of Henle. (correct)

For a patient with a history of recurrent calcium kidney stones (hypercalciuria), what class of diuretic would be most beneficial and why?

  • Osmotic diuretics, because they increase overall urine volume and prevent calcium precipitation.
  • Thiazide diuretics, because they increase calcium reabsorption in the distal tubule, reducing urinary calcium excretion. (correct)
  • Potassium-sparing diuretics, because they prevent hypokalemia, which can exacerbate hypercalciuria.
  • Loop diuretics, because they promote calcium excretion.

In a patient with heart failure, which diuretic would be the MOST appropriate initial choice if the patient also has a known allergy to sulfa drugs?

  • Furosemide, due to its rapid onset of action and efficacy in treating edema. (correct)
  • Hydrochlorothiazide, as it is a thiazide diuretic that is less likely to cause allergic reactions in sulfa-sensitive individuals.
  • Acetazolamide, due to its mild diuretic effect and ability to manage acid-base balance.
  • Spironolactone, because it has potassium-sparing effects and is less likely to cause electrolyte imbalances.

What is the primary mechanism by which osmotic diuretics, such as mannitol, reduce intracranial pressure?

<p>By increasing the osmolarity of the plasma, drawing water from the intracellular space into the bloodstream, and subsequently excreting it via the kidneys. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following diuretics is MOST likely to cause metabolic acidosis as a significant side effect?

<p>Acetazolamide (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A patient with cirrhosis and ascites is being treated with spironolactone. Which electrolyte abnormality is MOST crucial to monitor for and manage closely?

<p>Hyperkalemia (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A patient is prescribed a loop diuretic for the management of edema associated with heart failure. What advice should be given to mitigate a common side effect?

<p>Consume potassium-rich foods or supplements to counteract potential hypokalemia. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which statement accurately contrasts the mechanisms by which thiazide and loop diuretics affect calcium excretion?

<p>Thiazide diuretics decrease calcium excretion, while loop diuretics increase it. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A patient with acute angle-closure glaucoma requires urgent treatment. Which diuretic would be MOST appropriate for initial management and why?

<p>Acetazolamide, because it reduces the production of aqueous humor by inhibiting carbonic anhydrase. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the rationale behind using diuretics in the management of hypertension?

<p>They reduce blood volume and sodium levels, decreasing cardiac output and systemic vascular resistance. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is a potential adverse effect of thiazide diuretics that may exacerbate pre-existing conditions in some patients?

<p>Hyperuricemia (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following classes of diuretics acts primarily on the distal convoluted tubule to inhibit sodium and chloride reabsorption?

<p>Thiazide diuretics (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In managing a patient with heart failure and reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF), which diuretic is commonly used to alleviate symptoms of fluid overload while also providing some degree of aldosterone antagonism?

<p>Spironolactone (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following electrolyte imbalances is most likely to be induced by loop diuretics, necessitating careful monitoring and possible supplementation?

<p>Hypokalemia (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How do loop diuretics affect the excretion of sodium, chloride, and potassium?

<p>Increase excretion of sodium, chloride, and potassium. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A patient is started on hydrochlorothiazide for hypertension. Which pre-existing condition would warrant careful monitoring due to its effect on glucose.

<p>Diabetes Mellitus (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which statement accurately describes a significant drug interaction involving diuretics?

<p>NSAIDs can diminish the diuretic effect of loop and thiazide diuretics. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A patient is diagnosed with primary hyperaldosteronism and requires diuretic therapy. Which diuretic would be most appropriate?

<p>Spironolactone (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which diuretic should be avoided or used with extreme caution during pregnancy?

<p>Chlortalidone. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which statement accurately summarizes the effects of diuretics on various segments of the nephron?

<p>Loop diuretics primarily act on the ascending loop of Henle; thiazides on the distal tubule. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following side effects is specifically associated with spironolactone?

<p>Gynécomastie (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How do thiazide diuretics compare to loop diuretics in terms of their impact on potassium levels?

<p>Both classes of diuretics can lead to hypokalemia but through different mechanisms. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is a common clinical use for mannitol?

<p>Reduction of intracranial pressure in cerebral edema. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the effect of loop diuretics on calcium excretion, and how does this impact their use in patients with hypercalcemia?

<p>Loop diuretics increase calcium excretion, making them useful in treating hypercalcemia. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the mechanism of action of potassium-sparing diuretics, such as amiloride, in the distal tubule and collecting duct?

<p>Directly blocking ENac channels. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following diuretics is LEAST likely to cause hypokalemia as a side effect?

<p>Spironolactone. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary mechanism behind the effectiveness of acetazolamide in treating mountain sickness?

<p>Acidosis stimulating the respiratory drive. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following statements accurately describes the interaction between diuretics and lithium?

<p>Thiazide diuretics can increase lithium levels, potentially leading to toxicity. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A patient with heart failure is taking furosemide. Which of the following clinical findings would warrant an immediate adjustment in their furosemide dosage or management strategy?

<p>Weight gain of 1 kg over the past week with worsening dyspnea. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

What is a diuretic?

Substance or medication that increases urine production by the kidneys, promoting water and electrolyte elimination.

What are the clinical uses of diuretics?

Edema treatment and management of arterial hypertension.

How do loop diuretics work?

Loop diuretics inhibit Na+/K+/2Cl- cotransport in the ascending limb of Henle.

What are the indications for loop diuretics?

Acute pulmonary edema and heart failure.

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What are the adverse effects of loop diuretics?

Hypokalemia, hypocalcemia, and dehydration.

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How do thiazide diuretics work?

Thiazide diuretics inhibit Na+/Cl- cotransport in the distal tubule.

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What are the indications for thiazide diuretics?

Hypertension and mild to moderate heart failure.

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What are the adverse effects of thiazide diuretics?

Hypokalemia, hyperglycemia, and hyperuricemia.

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How do potassium-sparing diuretics work?

Spironolactone antagonizes aldosterone and amiloride inhibits sodium channels.

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What are the indications for potassium-sparing diuretics?

Hyperaldosteronism and heart failure.

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What are the adverse effects relating to potassium-sparing diuretics?

Hyperkalemia and gynecomastia (with spironolactone).

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How do carbonic anhydrase inhibitors work?

Acetazolamide inhibits carbonic anhydrase in the proximal tubule.

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What are the indications for carbonic anhydrase inhibitors?

Glaucoma and mountain sickness.

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What are the adverse effects of carbonic anhydrase inhibitors?

Metabolic acidosis and hypokalemia.

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How do osmotic diuretics work?

Mannitol increases the osmolarity of the glomerular filtrate.

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What are the indications for osmotic diuretics?

Cerebral edema and acute renal failure.

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What are the adverse effects of osmotic diuretics?

Dehydration and hypernatremia.

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In which conditions are diuretics used therapeutically?

Hypertension, heart failure, nephrotic syndrome, and liver cirrhosis.

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What are common electrolyte imbalances caused by diuretics?

Hypokalemia (loop, thiazides) and hyperkalemia (potassium-sparing).

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What are the general contraindications for diuretics?

Hypovolemia and severe kidney failure.

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What are specific contraindications for spironolactone and mannitol?

Spironolactone: hyperkalemia; Mannitol: congestive pulmonary edema.

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What drugs interact with diuretics?

NSAIDs diminish diuretic effect. IEC/ARA II increase hyperkalemia risk.

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How should diuretics be used during pregnancy?

Use furosemide with caution and avoid thiazides in pre-eclampsia.

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Study Notes

  • Diuretics
  • By Pr N LOUMI MEDEDJEL
  • Knowing their mechanisms of action.
  • Understanding the different types of diuretics.
  • Identifying their indications, side effects and contraindications.

Definition

  • A diuretic is a substance or drug that boosts urine production in the kidneys.
  • Promotes the elimination of water and electrolytes like sodium, potassium, and chlorine

Clinical Utility

  • Used in the treatment of edema.
  • Used for the management of arterial hypertension (HTA).

Classification of Diuretics

  • Is based on the site of action in the nephron.
  • Loop diuretics act on the loop of Henle.
  • Thiazides act on the distal tubule.
  • Potassium-sparing diuretics act on the collecting tubule.
  • Carbonic anhydrase inhibitors act on the proximal tubule.
  • Osmotic diuretics have a global effect.

Loop Diuretics (Furosemide)

  • Blocks the Na+/K+/2Cl- co-transport in the ascending limb of Henle
  • Used in the treatment of acute pulmonary edema.
  • Used in the treatment of heart failure.
  • Can cause side effects like hypokalemia.
  • Can cause side effects like hypocalcemia.
  • Can cause side effects like dehydration.

Thiazides: Hydrochlorothiazide, Chlortalidone

  • Inhibits Na+/Cl- co-transport in the distal tubule.
  • Can be used for HTA
  • Can be used for mild to moderate heart failure.
  • Can cause hypokalemia.
  • Can cause hyperglycemia.
  • Can cause hyperuricemia.

Potassium-Sparing Diuretics: Spironolactone, Amiloride

  • Spironolactone works as an aldosterone antagonist.
  • Amiloride inhibits sodium channels.
  • Used in cases with hyperaldosteronism.
  • Used in cases with cardiac insufficiency.
  • Can cause hyperkalemia.
  • Spironolactone can cause gynecomastia in susceptible individuals.

Carbonic Anhydrase Inhibitors: Acetazolamide

  • Suppresses carbonic anhydrase in the proximal tubule.
  • This also has an effect on the ciliary body.
  • Can also effect the choroid plexus and the central nervous system
  • Used in the treatment of glaucoma.
  • Used to treat mountain sickness, increasing ventilation by promoting bicarbonate excretion, inducing mild metabolic.
  • Side effects include metabolic acidosis.
  • Side effects include hypokalemia.

Osmotic Diuretics: Mannitol

  • Increases osmolarity of the glomerular filtrate, preventing water reabsorption.
  • Used for cerebral edema.
  • Used for acute renal failure.
  • Can cause dehydration as a side effect.
  • Can cause hypernatremia as a side effect.

Main Therapeutic Indications

  • HTA
  • Cardiac insufficiency
  • Nephrotic syndrome
  • Hepatic cirrhosis with ascites

Common Side Effects

  • Hypokalemia with loop and thiazide diuretics.
  • Hyperkalemia with potassium-sparing diuretics.
  • Dehydration and hypotension are also potential side effects.

Contraindications

  • Hypovolemia makes diuretic use inadvisable in most cases.
  • Severe renal failure advises against the use of diuretics based upon their class.
  • Spironolactone is contraindicated in hyperkalemia.
  • Mannitol is contraindicated in congestive pulmonary edema.

Drug Interactions

  • NSAIDs diminish the diuretic effect.
  • ACE inhibitors/ARBs increase the risk of hyperkalemia.
  • Lithium increases the risk of toxicity.

Diuretics and Pregnancy Recommendations

  • Furosemide be used with caution.
  • Thiazides should be avoided with pre-eclampsia due to inducing hypovolemia and diminished placental blood flow.

Conclusion

  • These drugs are essential for heart failure, edema, and hypertension.
  • Acting through increasing sodium and water excretion through varied mechanisms through their kidney sites.
  • Each diuretic has specific considerations.
  • Use and monitoring is essential for optimizing effectiveness while limiting the risks.

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