Diuretics are drugs that increase the volume of urine produced by promoting the excretion of salt and water from the kidneys. There are several types of diuretics, each working in a distinct way.
Thiazide diuretics inhibit sodium re-absorption at the beginning of the distal convoluted tubules. Potassium sparing diuretics prevent excessive loss of potassium at the distal convoluted tubules.
A combination of a potassium sparing diuretic with a thiazide diuretic is used to reduce edema due to salt and water retention in disorders of the heart, kidneys, liver or lungs. They are used commonly in treatment of hypertension.
Potassium sparing diuretics prevent excessive loss of potassium at the distal convoluted tubules. A combination of a potassium sparing diuretic with a thiazide diuretic is used to reduce edema due to salt and water retention in disorders of the heart, kidneys, liver or lungs.
Description. Spironolactone and hydrochlorothiazide combination is used to treat high blood pressure (hypertension). It may also be used to treat water retention (edema) in patients with congestive heart failure, liver cirrhosis, or a kidney disorder called nephrotic syndrome.
Thus, in patients in whom potassium depletion raises the level of concern regarding digoxin toxicity, use of a potassium-sparing diuretic is a safe approach to reducing potassium excretion and thus reducing the risk of arrhythmias.
