- Mechanism of Action
- Inhibits the sodium-potassium-chloride cotransporters in the thick ascending limb of the loop of Henle, normally responsible for 25% of tubular sodium reabsorption. Inhibition results in increased excretion of sodium and, with it, water.
Clinical Use
- Indications
- Peripheral oedema – due to congestive cardiac failure / renal failure / nephrotic syndrome / cirrhosis
- Acute pulmonary oedema
- Symptomatic ascites (second line treatment)
- Adverse Effects
- Hypokalaemia
- Hyponatraemia
- Dehydration / hypovolaemia
- Hyperuricaemia
- Muscle cramps
- Headache
- Hepatic encephalopathy in patients with liver disease
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