Triamterene Flashcards

Study Notes

Classification

Potassium-sparing diuretic, used to promote sodium and water excretion while maintaining potassium levels.

Action

Increases sodium and water excretion, causing potential hyperkalemia if used alone.
Results in loss of sodium, chloride, water, bicarbonate, and calcium.

Therapeutic Effect

Typically prescribed alongside loop or thiazide diuretics to manage hypertension (HTN) or edema while sparing potassium.

Absorption

Incompletely absorbed following oral administration.

Distribution

Widely distributed throughout the body, including passage through the placenta and into breast milk.

Metabolism

Primarily metabolized in the liver.

Excretion

Excreted through kidneys and breast milk.

Contraindications/Precautions

Not suitable for individuals with hypersensitivity, hyperkalemia, renal or liver disease, and anuria.
Use with caution during pregnancy and avoid in breastfeeding.

Side Effects

Common side effects include jaundice, elevated liver enzymes, headache, photosensitivity, and nausea/vomiting (N/V).

Adverse Reactions

Serious reactions can include anaphylaxis, thrombocytopenia, hyperkalemia, Stevens-Johnson syndrome, and toxic epidermal necrosis.

Interactions

May interact negatively with ACE inhibitors, NSAIDs, and potassium supplements.

Route

Administered orally (PO).

Assessment

Dietary guidance: limit potassium-rich foods and supplements.
Administer in the morning with food or milk to minimize gastrointestinal upset.
Monitor potassium levels to detect hyperkalemia, along with blood pressure, edema, weight, input/output, and urine output.
Assess for signs of hypokalemia and perform periodic ECG in long-term therapy.
Regularly check for skin rash indicating Stevens-Johnson syndrome.
Evaluate serum potassium before and during therapy; withhold if hyperkalemia is detected.
Discontinue potassium-sparing diuretic three days prior to glucose tolerance testing due to hyperkalemia risk.
Monitor platelet count and total leukocyte count as part of therapy.

Patient Teaching

Adhere to prescribed dosing schedule, do not double doses if missed.
Avoid excessive salt and potassium unless directed.
Caution advised for dizziness; refrain from driving until the effects are known.
Inform healthcare providers about all medications, including OTC drugs, vitamins, and herbal remedies.
Use sunscreen and protective clothing to avoid photosensitivity.
Report symptoms like rash, muscle weakness, cramps, fatigue, severe nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea.
Schedule follow-up appointments to monitor health progress.
Continue hypertension treatment and learn proper technique for weekly blood pressure monitoring.

Description

This quiz features flashcards focusing on the classification, action, and therapeutic effects of Triamterene, a potassium-sparing diuretic. Each card provides key definitions and insights into how Triamterene works in managing hypertension and edema. Test your knowledge on this important medication!

Triamterene Flashcards

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Questions and Answers

What is the classification of Triamterene?

What action does Triamterene promote?

Triamterene can be used with loop and thiazide diuretics to manage ______ or ______ while sparing potassium.

How is Triamterene absorbed after oral administration?

Where is Triamterene widely distributed?

Where does the metabolism of Triamterene occur?

How is Triamterene excreted from the body?

What are some contraindications/precautions for using Triamterene?

What are common side effects of Triamterene?

What are possible adverse reactions to Triamterene?

What are some interactions that Triamterene may have?

What is the route of administration for Triamterene?

The max dose for Triamterene has not been specified in the information provided. ______ or False?

What dietary considerations should be made when assessing a patient on Triamterene?

What key information should patients be educated about when using Triamterene?