Piretanide (HOE 118) in dogs

Piretanide, a "loop" diuretic, was administered orally and IV at 3 dose levels to healthy Beagles. The effects were measured over an 8-hour period. A marked diuresis occurred with both methods of administration at all dose levels. It was characterized by increased excretion of Na+, Cl-, and, to a lesser extent, K+. Urine osmolality and specific gravity decreased significantly, while urine Na+ and K+ concentrations decreased concurrently. Changes from base lines were not detected in hematologic values, except for serum K+ which reached below base line with larger doses. Piretanide is a potent diuretic and treated patients should be monitored for hypokalemia.