Diuretics
Potassium
Diuretics
Listed below are some examples of diuretics .
Generic Name |
Brand Name |
Furosemide |
Lasix ® |
Hydrochlorothiazide |
HydroDIURIL ® |
( HCTZ ) |
Indapamide Lozol ® Metolazone Zaroxolyn ®
Diuretics , or water pills , help your kidneys produce more urine by eliminating excess salt and water . This results in less fluid for your heart to pump . With less to pump , the heart does not need to work so hard .
Some diuretics also help your kidneys to produce more urine without losing too much potassium . These are called potassium-sparing diuretics and include the following :
Generic Name |
Brand Name |
Amiloride |
Midamor ® |
Spironolactone |
Aldactone ® |
Triamterene |
Dyrenium ® |
Combinations of diuretics include Dyazide ® ( HCTZ and triamterene ) and Aldactazide ® ( spironolactone and HCTZ ).
Along with an increase in urination , you may feel thirsty . Thirst and increased urination are normal effects of diuretics , but call your doctor if you are taking diuretics and have :
� Dizziness � Severe weakness � Severe leg cramps � Fatigue
Potassium
Potassium is a mineral that your body needs . It helps to control your heart rhythm . Most water pills cause you to lose potassium ( KCL ) along with urine . If this happens , you may need to take extra potassium . Brands of potassium include K-Dur and Micro K .
Do not take a potassium supplement unless directed by your doctor .
Potassium pills may cause an upset stomach . To avoid this , take the potassium with a full glass of water , with your meal or right after eating .
Ask your doctor if it would be helpful to include more potassium-rich foods in your diet . Some patients with kidney problems should not eat foods high in potassium . Some salt substitutes are largely composed of potassium . Do not use salt substitutes without first checking with your doctor .
Foods high in potassium and low in sodium include :
� Raisins , prunes , apricots , figs , and dates
� Bananas , cantaloupes , grapes , oranges and orange juice , and honeydew melons
� Potatoes , beets , greens , spinach , peas , beans , tomatoes , and mushrooms .
Avoid canned versions unless they are labeled “ low sodium .”
� Broccoli , cauliflower , and squash � Flounder � Turkey or beef
21