Study 3 Diuretics in Cardiovascular Care with 12 free online flashcards. Review key terms, definitions, and concepts with this interactive flashcard deck.
What is the main effect of diuretics, and what cardiovascular problems can they help manage?
Diuretics increase sodium and water excretion. They help manage hypertension and relieve fluid overload, including edema associated with heart failure.
How do loop diuretics act in the nephron?
Loop diuretics block the Na⁺-K⁺-2Cl⁻ transporter in the thick ascending limb of the nephron.
When are loop diuretics commonly used in cardiovascular care?
They are commonly used for substantial fluid overload, including edema associated with heart failure.
What electrolyte and acid–base effects can loop diuretics cause?
They can lower potassium, magnesium, and calcium, and may cause volume depletion and metabolic alkalosis.
How do thiazide diuretics act in the nephron?
Thiazides block the Na⁺-Cl⁻ transporter in the distal convoluted tubule.
What are common cardiovascular uses of thiazide diuretics?
Thiazides are commonly used for hypertension and some less severe fluid-retention states.
What electrolyte and metabolic effects can thiazides cause?
They can lower potassium and sodium, raise uric acid and calcium, and contribute to metabolic alkalosis.
What is the main renal effect of potassium-sparing diuretics?
They reduce sodium reabsorption in the distal nephron while limiting potassium loss.
Which two types of potassium-sparing diuretics are described?
The two types are mineralocorticoid receptor antagonists, such as spironolactone and eplerenone, and ENaC blockers, such as amiloride.
What important risks are associated with potassium-sparing diuretics?
They can raise potassium; mineralocorticoid receptor antagonists may also cause changes in kidney function.
What breast-related adverse effect can spironolactone cause?
Spironolactone can cause breast tenderness or enlargement.
Why can electrolyte loss from loop or thiazide diuretics be hazardous to the heart?
Low potassium or magnesium can increase arrhythmia risk; low potassium can also increase susceptibility to digoxin toxicity.