Diuretics

Diuretics are drugs that increase the flow of urine through their effects on kidney function. These drugs are often used to rid the body of sodium as well because it causes edema (swelling) if it is retained in the body fluids in excessive amounts.

There are several categories of diuretics:

• Osmotic diuretics function by pulling certain amount of water along as the salt is excreted by the kidney.
• Acid-forming diuretics increase the acidity of the blood plasma which results in secretion of the acid-forming substance with an appropriate amount of water.
• Carbonic anhydrase inhibitors
• Thiazide diuretics act directly on the collecting tubules of the kidney and promote the excretion of sodium, potassium, chloride, and bicarbonate along with the necessary excretion of water. Side effects of these drugs include alteration in the body chemistry. A depletion of potassium is one of the most common side effects of taking diuretics.
• Steroid antagonists inhibit aldosterone, an adrenal hormone that promotes the retention of sodium and the excretion of potassium. The excretion of sodium and chloride is accompanied by an appropriate amount of water. ²

Diuretics of the drug of choice in treating high blood pressure (hypertension). They are commonly used to treat mild congestive heart failure as well as certain disorders of the circulatory system and liver which lead to excess fluid retention. Used as prescribed, diuretics are generally safe. ³

References:
REF FILE 324-DAC