Potassium-Sparing Diuretics

Course overview

Potassium-sparing diuretics prevent resorption of sodium and subsequent loss of potassium at the level of the distal part of the nephron. They are considered a mild diuretic and are used for the treatment of hypertension, edema associated with cirrhosis of the liver, nephrotic syndrome, heart failure, and post-myocardial infarction heart failure. Four potassium-sparing diuretic medication are currently available in the United States - amiloride, eplerenone, spironolactone, and triamterene. The pharmacological profile of the potassium-sparing diuretics, their labeled uses, adverse effects, contraindications, and warnings, as well as patient monitoring during therapy with a potassium-sparing diuretic and patient education issues, are discussed. No Test Required!