Pharmacology of Diuretics

A type of diuretic, they act by blocking sodium (Na) and chloride (Cl) reabsorption in the ascending loop of Henle, leading to increased urine output. Examples include furosemide (Lasix).

A type of diuretic, they inhibit sodium (Na) and chloride (Cl) reabsorption in the distal convoluted tubule, leading to increased urine output. Examples include hydrochlorothiazide (HCTZ).

A type of diuretic that draws water from the blood into the urine, leading to increased urine output. Examples include mannitol.

A type of diuretic that spares potassium (K) in your body while increasing urine output. Examples include spironolactone (Aldactone).

A powerful loop diuretic commonly used to rapidly remove excess fluids from the body. It quickly blocks sodium and chloride reabsorption in the ascending loop of Henle.

A serious condition caused by high levels of digoxin in the blood. It can lead to various heart rhythm problems.

The process of filtering blood through the kidneys and removing waste products in the form of urine.

A condition where the heart is not pumping blood effectively. It can lead to fluid buildup in the body.

A diuretic that blocks the reabsorption of sodium and chloride in the distal convoluted tubule, leading to increased urine output.

Hypokalemia, a condition of low potassium levels in the blood.

A class of diuretics that inhibit the action of aldosterone, a hormone that helps retain sodium and excrete potassium.

Spironolactone (Aldactone), a potassium-sparing diuretic that blocks the action of aldosterone in the distal nephron.

A diuretic that works by creating an osmotic gradient in the proximal convoluted tubule, preventing water reabsorption.

Mannitol is given intravenously, typically in a 5-25% solution.

A high-salt diet can lead to fluid retention and high blood pressure.

Diuretics can help reduce fluid retention by increasing urination.

A type of diuretic that blocks the action of aldosterone in the kidneys, leading to increased potassium retention.

A specific type of Aldosterone Sparing Diuretic that directly disrupts the sodium-potassium exchange in the kidneys, causing increased potassium retention.

A common side effect of Aldosterone Sparing Diuretics, potentially life-threatening due to its impact on heart rhythm.

A crucial measure when administering Aldosterone Sparing Diuretics, as high potassium levels can be dangerous.

Drugs that are not recommended to be used in conjunction with Aldosterone Sparing Diuretics due to their potential to exacerbate hyperkalemia.

This electrolyte is essential for nerve impulse transmission, especially in the heart, and imbalances can lead to heart rhythm problems.

A method of replenishing potassium levels when they are low (hypokalemia), often used for patients with heart rhythm issues.

A common complication of oral potassium supplements that can be uncomfortable for patients.

Potassium levels can be dangerously high if large potassium pills are taken without adequate water intake.

Administering potassium chloride intravenously too fast can cause immediate cardiac arrest.

Oral potassium should be given with plenty of water, preferably with the patient sitting up.

Conditions like diarrhea, wound drainage, and prolonged diuresis can lead to potassium loss.

Calcium gluconate is used to counter the cardiac toxicity of hyperkalemia.

Insulin and glucose promote potassium uptake into cells, lowering blood potassium levels.

Kayexalate removes potassium from the body by exchanging it with sodium.

Muscarinic antagonists selectively block the effects of acetylcholine at the muscarinic receptors. This results in decreased activity of the parasympathetic nervous system.

Used for bradycardia in critical care settings, surgical pretreatment to prevent bradycardia during surgery, and to dry secretions before surgery.

Dry mouth, blurred vision, photophobia, elevation of intraocular pressure, urinary retention, anhidrosis, tachycardia.

Inhibits alpha 1 receptors, leading to vasodilation. This results in decreased blood pressure and cardiac output.

Essential hypertension (high BP), benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), and Raynaud's phenomenon.

Dizziness, headache, drowsiness, impotence, reflex tachycardia, nasal congestion, edema/postural hypotension, orthostatic hypotension.

Beta blockers reduce heart rate, peripheral vascular resistance (with long-term use), force of contraction, and speed of AV conduction.

Angina, hypertension, cardiac dysrhythmias, myocardial infarction, heart failure.

Bradycardia, reduced cardiac output, possible precipitation of heart failure, atrioventricular heart block.

Rapid withdrawal of beta blockers can cause angina or ventricular dysrhythmias. Therefore, it's important to gradually reduce the dose over several weeks.