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Potassium-sparing diuretics

Other names: Potassium sparing diuretics

What are Potassium-sparing diuretics?

Potassium-sparing diuretics are medicines that increase diuresis (urination) without the loss of potassium. They are generally weak diuretics and work by interfering with the sodium-potassium exchange in the distal convoluted tubule of the kidneys or as an antagonist at the aldosterone receptor. Aldosterone promotes the retention of sodium and water, so if potassium-sparing diuretics are used to block this effect, more sodium and water can pass into the collecting ducts of the kidneys, increasing diuresis.

Because potassium-sparing diuretics do not promote the secretion of potassium during diuresis they do not cause hypokalemia (low potassium levels). However, there is a risk of hyperkalemia (high potassium levels) if they are used with other agents that also retain potassium, such as ACE inhibitors.

Potassium-sparing diuretics may be used alone or in conjunction with loop or thiazide diuretics.

List of Potassium-sparing diuretics

View by  Brand | Generic
Drug Name Avg. Rating Reviews
Aldactone (Pro)
Generic name: spironolactone
6.5
27 reviews
Inspra (Pro)
Generic name: eplerenone
5.5
2 reviews
Dyrenium (Pro)
Generic name: triamterene
8.5
2 reviews
Midamor
Generic name: amiloride
1.0
1 review
CaroSpir
Generic name: spironolactone
No reviews
For ratings, users were asked how effective they found the medicine while considering positive/adverse effects and ease of use (1 = not effective, 10 = most effective).

Further information

Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.