káliummegtartó

káliummegtartó refers to a substance or medication that reduces the amount of potassium excreted by the kidneys. Potassium is an essential electrolyte that plays a crucial role in nerve and muscle function, including the heart. While the body needs potassium, too much can be harmful, and the kidneys are responsible for maintaining proper balance.

Several types of medications can act as potassium-sparing agents. These are often diuretics, which are drugs that increase urine production. However, unlike other diuretics that cause significant potassium loss, potassium-sparing diuretics work by inhibiting the reabsorption of sodium in specific parts of the kidney tubules. This action indirectly reduces potassium excretion. Examples of potassium-sparing diuretics include spironolactone, amiloride, and triamterene.

These medications are typically prescribed for conditions such as heart failure, high blood pressure, and edema (swelling caused by fluid retention), especially when a patient is also on other diuretics that deplete potassium. They are also used in certain liver diseases. The use of potassium-sparing agents requires careful medical supervision because an excessive buildup of potassium in the blood, known as hyperkalemia, can be dangerous and lead to serious cardiac arrhythmias. Blood tests are often performed to monitor potassium levels when these medications are used.