Diuretics

Diuretics

Diuretics (/daɪjʊˈrɛtɪks/), also known as water pills, are a class of drugs that promote diuresis, the increased production of urine.

Etymology

The term "diuretic" comes from the Greek word "diourein" which means "to urinate".

Types of Diuretics

There are several types of diuretics, each working in a different way and used for different purposes. The main types include:

• Loop diuretics
• Thiazide diuretics
• Potassium-sparing diuretics
• Osmotic diuretics
• Carbonic anhydrase inhibitors

Uses

Diuretics are often prescribed for the treatment of edema (fluid buildup in tissues) and hypertension (high blood pressure). They can also be used to treat certain heart, liver, and kidney conditions.

Side Effects

Like all medications, diuretics can have side effects. These may include frequent urination, dehydration, electrolyte imbalance, and in some cases, kidney damage.

Related Terms

• Diuresis
• Edema
• Hypertension
• Electrolyte imbalance
• Kidney damage

External links

• Medical encyclopedia article on Diuretics
• Wikipedia's article - Diuretics

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