Thiazide diuretics

Definition

Thiazide diuretics are medications that help the kidneys remove excess sodium and water from the body. They are often used to treat hypertension and prevent fluid retention.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Thiazide diuretics can lead to hypokalemia (low potassium levels), which is important to monitor in patients.
2. These diuretics are commonly used in the management of hypertension and sometimes in heart failure.
3. They work by inhibiting sodium reabsorption at the distal convoluted tubule of the nephron.
4. Patients on thiazide diuretics should be advised to maintain adequate dietary potassium intake.
5. Common examples include hydrochlorothiazide and chlorthalidone.

Review Questions

• What electrolyte imbalance is commonly associated with thiazide diuretics?
• In which part of the kidney do thiazide diuretics exert their effect?
• Name two common conditions for which thiazide diuretics are prescribed.

Related terms

Hypokalemia: A condition characterized by low levels of potassium in the blood, often a side effect of diuretic use

Hypertension: A chronic medical condition where the blood pressure in the arteries is persistently elevated, often treated with medications including thiazide diuretics

Distal Convoluted Tubule: The part of the nephron in the kidney where thiazide diuretics inhibit sodium reabsorption