A review of diuretic use in dialysis patients

Diuretics are commonly prescribed to manage various conditions in the general population. They can continue to play a role in dialysis patients to manage extracellular fluid volume and hypertension and to reduce the tendency to hyperkalemia. Nevertheless, diuretics are often stopped when patients commence dialysis. Several studies have shown that preserved residual renal function in dialysis patients is associated with improved patient survival. Although the association between diuretic use and preserved residual renal function is still controversial, the numerous clinical benefits offered by diuretics render those agents valuable in dialysis patients with urine output. Loop diuretics are generally the agents of choice in end-stage renal disease. They need to be used at higher doses because of pharmacokinetic changes in the context of diminishing renal clearance. Other classes of diuretics can still be used in end-stage renal disease, but usually in conjunction with loop diuretics or for benefits independent of diuresis. Complications can occur with the use of diuretics, but are avoidable with appropriate use. Dose-related ototoxicity, especially with concomitant use of other ototoxic medications, can occur. Hyperkalemia is possible with the use of potassium-sparing diuretics, but studies suggest that these agents can be safely administered with close monitoring.