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Published on: July 28, 2018
Use of Diuretics in the Treatment of Heart Failure in Older Adults
Domenic A Sica1, Todd W B Gehr2, William H Frishman3
1Clinical Pharmacology and Hypertension, Box 980160, MCV Station, Medical College of Virginia of Virginia Commonwealth University, 1101 East Marshall Street, Richmond, VA 23298, USA.
Abstract:
Diuretics are the most commonly prescribed class of drugs in patients with heart failure, and in the short term they remain the most effective treatment for relief from fluid congestion. This article reviews the mode of action of the various diuretic classes and the physiologic adaptations that follow and sets up the basis for their use in the treatment of volume-retaining states, particularly as applies to the elderly. In addition, the article reviews the common side effects related to diuretics.
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