Diuretics

Diuretics are the mainstay of therapies for many diseases, including hypertension congestive heart failure. While their use can be beneficial, many side effects and interactions are attributed to diuretic therapy. This chapter reviews the mechanism of action for the various diuretics and elucidates differences between classes. Major drug-drug and drug-nutrient interactions are examined with information on intervention and patient teaching. Several therapeutic dilemmas in the treatment of hypertension, renal failure, congestive heart failure, and pulmonary edemas are reviewed. With proper nursing assessment and intervention, the diuretics can have beneficial effects in hypertension therapies and the treatment of edema and cause a minimum of adverse drug experiences.