Learning About Diuretics

Overview

Diuretics, or "water pills," cause your kidneys to remove salt (sodium) and water through the urine. They also relax the blood vessel walls. These things can help lower your blood pressure, which reduces your risk of a heart attack and stroke. Lowering your blood pressure also reduces your risk of kidney disease.

Diuretics are also used to treat conditions like kidney disease, heart failure, and liver disease. They can help relieve symptoms caused by fluid buildup, such as swelling.

Examples

For each medicine in the list, the generic name is first. This is followed by a brand name.

• Bumetanide (Bumex)
• Chlorthalidone (Thalitone)
• Furosemide (Lasix)
• Hydrochlorothiazide (HydroDIURIL)
• Torsemide (Demadex)

This is not a complete list of diuretic medicines.

Possible side effects

All medicines can cause side effects.

Side effects of diuretics include:

• Low levels of potassium.
• Feeling dizzy.
• Dehydration.
• Muscle cramps.
• Headache.

You may have other side effects not listed here. Check the information that comes with your medicine or ask your doctor or pharmacist about the side effects of each medicine you take.

What to know about taking this medicine

• Be safe with medicines. Take your medicines exactly as prescribed. Call your doctor if you think you are having a problem with your medicine or if you missed a dose of a medicine.
• You may need to take potassium pills. Ask your doctor about this.
• You may feel more tired or need to urinate more often when you start to take this medicine. These effects tend to occur less after you've taken it for a while. If the increase in urination gets in the way of your sleep or daily activities, talk to your doctor. Ask for help planning a schedule for taking the medicine.
• Do not take these medicines if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or planning to become pregnant.
• Taking some medicines together can cause problems. Tell your doctor or pharmacist all the medicines you take. This includes other prescription medicines, over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, supplements, and herbal remedies.
• You may need regular blood and urine tests to see if the medicines are causing any problems.