Classification of Diuretics

Diuretics are a class of drugs that promote the excretion of water and salts from the body by increasing urine production. They are often used to treat conditions such as hypertension, heart failure, and edema. Diuretics can be classified into five main types:

1. Thiazide Diuretics

• Mechanism: Inhibit sodium reabsorption in the distal convoluted tubule.
• Examples:
  • Hydrochlorothiazide (HCTZ)
  • Chlorthalidone
  • Indapamide

2. Loop Diuretics

• Mechanism: Inhibit sodium, potassium, and chloride reabsorption in the ascending loop of Henle.
• Examples:
  • Furosemide
  • Bumetanide
  • Torsemide

3. Potassium-Sparing Diuretics

• Mechanism: Act on the distal convoluted tubule and collecting duct to prevent potassium loss while promoting sodium excretion.
• Examples:
  • Spironolactone (also an aldosterone antagonist)
  • Eplerenone
  • Amiloride
  • Triamterene

4. Carbonic Anhydrase Inhibitors

• Mechanism: Inhibit the enzyme carbonic anhydrase, reducing the reabsorption of bicarbonate in the proximal convoluted tubule.
• Examples:
  • Acetazolamide
  • Methazolamide

5. Osmotic Diuretics

• Mechanism: Increase the osmolarity of the blood and renal filtrate, which reduces water reabsorption in the proximal tubule and loop of Henle.
• Examples:
  • Mannitol
  • Glycerin

Each type of diuretic is selected based on the specific condition being treated and the patient's overall health profile.