Potassium-sparing diuretics are drugs to remove excess fluid in the body through urine while maintaining potassium levels in the blood . This drug is commonly used to lower high blood pressure.
Potassium-sparing diuretics work by inhibiting the action of the hormone aldosterone and inhibiting the exchange of sodium and potassium in the kidneys. This way of working causes more sodium to be excreted through the urine while maintaining potassium levels in the blood.
High sodium levels in the urine will attract water from the body so that the amount of water excreted will also increase. Removal of water and sodium from the body will cause a decrease in blood pressure in hypertensive patients .
Apart from treating hypertension, potassium-sparing diuretics can also be used to prevent, treat, or relieve symptoms of several conditions and diseases below:
Ascites due to cirrhosis
Heart failure
Edema
Aldosteronism (too much aldosterone) due to disturbances in the adrenal glands
Hirsutism
Polycystic ovarian syndrome ( PCOS )
Potassium-sparing diuretics are usually used with other types of diuretic drugs to increase their effectiveness, as well as to keep potassium levels in the blood normal. This is because other types of diuretics generally cause a decrease in potassium levels in the blood, and can even cause hypokalemia .
Precautions Before Using Potassium-Saving Diuretics
There are several things you should pay attention to before using potassium-sparing diuretics, including:
Do not take potassium-sparing diuretic drugs if you have an allergy to these drugs. Always tell your doctor about any allergies you have.
Tell your doctor if you have hyperkalemia, kidney failure, or Addison's disease . Potassium-sparing diuretic drugs should not be used in these conditions.
Tell your doctor about medications you take before and while using potassium-sparing diuretics, especially potassium supplements , ACE inhibitors , or ARBs . The use of potassium-sparing diuretics with these drugs can cause hyperkalemia.
Inform your doctor if you have or are experiencing electrolyte disturbances , dehydration, liver disease, diabetes , or kidney disease.
Limit consumption of foods rich in potassium , such as bananas or potatoes. If necessary, consult with a nutritionist about a good diet for you while using this drug.
Tell your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding.
Do not immediately drive a vehicle or do other activities that require alertness after taking potassium-sparing diuretic drugs, because these drugs can cause dizziness.
Tell your doctor that you are using a potassium-sparing diuretic before having any medical procedure, including surgery or dental work.
Check with your doctor if you experience conditions that increase the risk of dehydration , such as vomiting or diarrhea, while taking potassium-sparing diuretics.
Immediately consult a doctor if an allergic drug reaction or overdose occurs after using potassium-sparing diuretic drugs.
Side Effects and Dangers of Potassium Sparing Diuretics
Potassium-sparing diuretics rarely cause side effects when taken in low doses. However, considering that this drug inhibits the removal of potassium from the body, the side effect of hyperkalemia can occur.
Hyperkalemia can cause symptoms such as:
Weak muscles
Tingling or numbness
Heart palpitations or palpitations
Chest pain
Hard to breathe
Nausea or vomiting
Some other side effects that can also arise from the use of potassium-sparing diuretics are:
Headache
Dizzy
Drowsiness
Diarrhea or even constipation
Loss of appetite
The body feels tired
Dry mouth
Heartburn, pain, or cramps
skin rash
Excessive hair growth
Check with your doctor if the side effects mentioned above do not go away or get worse. Immediately consult a doctor if you experience an allergic reaction or the following serious side effects:
Dehydration and electrolyte disturbances, which are characterized by excessive thirst, muscle cramps, weakness, severe dizziness, palpitations, confusion, seizures, fainting
Impaired kidney function, which is characterized by infrequent urination, dark urine color
The color of the eyes and skin is yellowish
Nausea and vomiting that doesn't stop
Gynecomastia
Irregular menstruation or vaginal bleeding outside of the menstrual cycle
Erectile dysfunction
Unusual bruising or bleeding
Vomit with dregs like coffee grounds
Ataxia
Potassium Sparing Diuretic Type, Trademark, and Dosage
The following are drugs that are included in the class of potassium-sparing diuretic drugs, along with their trademarks and dosages:
Amiloride
Dosage form: Tablets
Trademark: Lorinide mite
To find out the dosage and further information about this drug, please open the amiloride drug page .
Eplerenone
Dosage form: Tablets
Trademark: -
To find out the dosage and further information about this drug, please open the eplerenone drug page .
Spironolactone
Dosage form: tablets
Trademarks: Aldactone, Carpiaton, Letonal, Spirola, Spironolactone
To find out the dosage and further information about this drug, please open the spironolactone drug page .