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Triamterene nephrolithiasis: renewed attention is warranted
M C Carr1, E L Prien, R K Babayan
1Department of Urology, Boston University Medical Center, Massachusetts.
The Journal of Urology
|December 1, 1990
Summary
Triamterene, a diuretic, may cause urinary stones more often than previously thought. This study found an increasing number of triamterene stones, highlighting the need for greater awareness of this medication side effect.
Area of Science:
- Nephrology
- Urology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Triamterene is a potassium-sparing diuretic.
- Triamterene has been associated with urinary calculus formation, but this was considered rare.
- Recent observations suggest a potential underestimation of this risk.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the incidence of triamterene-related urinary stones.
- To assess if the phenomenon is as rare as presumed.
- To re-emphasize the calculogenic potential of triamterene.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of urinary stone analyses.
- Analysis of stones collected over a ten-year period.
- Utilizing data from a single, accredited stone analysis laboratory.
Main Results:
- An increasing trend in the occurrence of triamterene stones was observed over the decade.
- The data challenges the presumption that triamterene-induced urolithiasis is a rare event.
- Specific stone composition analysis confirmed the presence of triamterene.
Conclusions:
- The incidence of triamterene stones appears to be rising.
- Increased clinical awareness regarding the lithogenic risk of triamterene is warranted.
- Healthcare providers should consider this risk when prescribing triamterene-containing medications.