Comparison between different types of diuretics
| Type of Diuretic | Mechanism of Action | Uses | Examples | Adverse Drug Reactions |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Thiazide Diuretics | Inhibit sodium/chloride cotransporter in the distal convoluted tubule. | Hypertension, mild edema. | Hydrochlorothiazide, Indapamide. | Electrolyte imbalance (low potassium), dehydration, dizziness, increased uric acid levels. |
| Loop Diuretics | Inhibit sodium-potassium-chloride cotransporter in the thick ascending loop of Henle. | Severe edema, heart failure. | Furosemide, Bumetanide. | Electrolyte imbalance (low potassium, magnesium), dehydration, ototoxicity, kidney damage. |
| Potassium-Sparing Diuretics | Block aldosterone receptors or prevent sodium reabsorption in the distal tubule. | Prevent potassium loss, mild hypertension. | Spironolactone, Amiloride. | Hyperkalemia (high potassium), nausea, vomiting, gynecomastia (with spironolactone). |
| Carbonic Anhydrase Inhibitors | Inhibit carbonic anhydrase enzyme in the proximal tubule. | Glaucoma, altitude sickness. | Acetazolamide. | Metabolic acidosis, fatigue, kidney stones, electrolyte imbalance. |
| Osmotic Diuretics | Increase osmotic pressure in the nephron, preventing water reabsorption. | Cerebral edema, acute kidney failure. | Mannitol. | Dehydration, electrolyte imbalance, pulmonary edema (in some cases). |