Potassium-sparing diuretics

Potassium-sparing diuretics (pronunciation: poh-TASS-ee-um SPAYR-ing dy-yoo-RET-iks) are a class of diuretics that do not promote the excretion of potassium in the urine. They are used in the management of hypertension and edema.

Etymology

The term "Potassium-sparing diuretics" is derived from the fact that these drugs spare the body from losing potassium during the diuretic process. The term "diuretic" comes from the Greek word "diourein" which means "to urinate".

Types

There are two main types of potassium-sparing diuretics: Aldosterone antagonists and sodium channel blockers. Aldosterone antagonists include spironolactone and eplerenone, while sodium channel blockers include amiloride and triamterene.

Mechanism of Action

Potassium-sparing diuretics act on the distal convoluted tubule and collecting ducts of the nephron in the kidney. They either inhibit the action of aldosterone (a hormone that promotes the excretion of potassium and the reabsorption of sodium and water) or directly inhibit sodium reabsorption. This results in increased excretion of water and sodium, while potassium is retained.

Side Effects

Common side effects of potassium-sparing diuretics include hyperkalemia (high potassium levels in the blood), gynecomastia (breast enlargement in men), and menstrual irregularities in women.

Related Terms

• Diuretics
• Aldosterone
• Hyperkalemia
• Hypertension
• Edema

External links

• Medical encyclopedia article on Potassium-sparing diuretics
• Wikipedia's article - Potassium-sparing diuretics

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