diureticum

Diureticum, Latin for diuretic, refers to any substance that increases urine production and promotes excretion of electrolytes. In pharmacology, diureticum encompasses several classes used to treat edema, hypertension, and certain kidney disorders. The main categories include loop diuretics (for example furosemide, bumetanide) that inhibit the Na-K-Cl cotransporter in the thick ascending limb of the loop of Henle; thiazide diuretics (such as hydrochlorothiazide) that inhibit the Na-Cl transporter in the distal convoluted tubule; potassium-sparing diuretics (such as spironolactone, amiloride) that reduce potassium loss by antagonizing aldosterone or blocking epithelial sodium channels; carbonic anhydrase inhibitors (such as acetazolamide) that cause bicarbonate diuresis; and osmotic diuretics (such as mannitol) that raise tubular fluid osmolarity to draw water into the urine.

Indications include edema from heart failure, cirrhosis, nephrotic syndrome, and hypertension. They are often used in combination with other antihypertensives and require regular monitoring of electrolytes, kidney function, and volume status. Dose adjustments are guided by clinical response, electrolyte trends, and comorbidities.

Adverse effects vary by class but commonly include dehydration and electrolyte disturbances (for example, hypokalemia with loop and thiazide diuretics; hyperkalemia with potassium-sparing agents), metabolic acidosis with carbonic anhydrase inhibitors, and an increased risk of gout with some thiazides. Drug interactions include NSAIDs reducing diuretic efficacy and potential lithium toxicity when paired with certain agents. The term diureticum originates from Latin and is encountered in some pharmacology writings to denote agents that promote diuresis.