Diuretics

Types

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High ceiling/loop diuretic

Inhibit Na+/K+/2Cl symporter in ascending limb of loop of Henle, preventing reabsorption and thereby increasing urinary excretion of sodium, chloride, and potassium

Thiazides

Act on the distal convoluted tubule and inhibit the sodium-chloride symporter

Carbonic anhydrase inhibitors

Inhibit the enzyme carbonic anhydrase in the proximal convoluted tubule

Potassium-sparing diuretics

Osmotic diuretics

Increase osmolality and work primarily by expanding extracellular fluid and plasma volume, therefore increasing blood flow to the kidneys

See Also