thiazidiiduretikumid

Thiazidiiduretikumid, more commonly known as thiazide diuretics, are a class of diuretic drugs primarily used to treat hypertension and edema. They work by inhibiting the sodium-chloride cotransporter in the distal convoluted tubule of the nephron in the kidneys. This inhibition leads to a decrease in sodium and chloride reabsorption, resulting in increased excretion of sodium, chloride, potassium, and water. The increased water excretion helps to reduce blood volume, which in turn lowers blood pressure.

The mechanism of action of thiazide diuretics involves blocking the symporter that normally reabsorbs sodium and chloride ions from the tubular fluid back into the bloodstream. By preventing this reabsorption, more of these ions, along with water, remain in the tubule and are eventually excreted as urine. This reduction in extracellular fluid volume is the primary reason for their antihypertensive and diuretic effects.

Thiazide diuretics are widely prescribed for conditions such as essential hypertension, congestive heart failure, and edema associated with liver cirrhosis or nephrotic syndrome. Common examples of thiazide diuretics include hydrochlorothiazide, chlorothiazide, and indapamide. While generally safe and effective, they can cause side effects such as hypokalemia (low potassium levels), hyponatremia (low sodium levels), hyperuricemia (high uric acid levels), and hyperglycemia (high blood sugar levels), particularly in susceptible individuals. Regular monitoring of electrolyte levels is often recommended during treatment.