Loop diuretic

From WikiMD's Wellnesspedia

Loop diuretics are a type of diuretic that work by inhibiting the sodium-potassium-chloride cotransporter in the thick ascending limb of the loop of Henle in the kidneys. This results in a decrease in the reabsorption of sodium and chloride, leading to an increase in the excretion of water, sodium, chloride, magnesium, and calcium.

Mechanism of action[edit | edit source]

Loop diuretics inhibit the sodium-potassium-chloride cotransporter (NKCC2) in the thick ascending limb of the loop of Henle. This transporter normally reabsorbs about 25% of the filtered load of sodium and chloride from the urine. By inhibiting this transporter, loop diuretics increase the excretion of sodium, chloride, and water.

Uses[edit | edit source]

Loop diuretics are used in the treatment of several conditions, including congestive heart failure, hypertension, and edema due to kidney or liver disease. They are also used in the treatment of hypercalcemia and hyperkalemia.

Side effects[edit | edit source]

Common side effects of loop diuretics include dehydration, hypokalemia, hyponatremia, hypomagnesemia, and hypocalcemia. Less common side effects include ototoxicity, gout, and hyperuricemia.

Examples[edit | edit source]

Examples of loop diuretics include furosemide, bumetanide, torsemide, and ethacrynic acid.

See also[edit | edit source]


Loop diuretic Resources

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Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD