Diuretics, Potassium-sparing (Systemic)

Category

• Aldosterone antagonist - Spironolactone
• Antihypertensive - Amiloride; Spironolactone; Triamterene
• Antihypokalemic - Amiloride; Spironolactone; Triamterene
• Diagnostic aid, primary hyperaldosteronism - Spironolactone
• Diuretic - Amiloride; Spironolactone; Triamterene

Description

Potassium-sparing diuretics are commonly used to help reduce the amount of water in the body. Unlike some other diuretics, these medicines do not cause your body to lose potassium.

Amiloride and spironolactone are also used to treat high blood pressure (hypertension). High blood pressure adds to the workload of the heart and arteries. If the condition continues for a long time, the heart and arteries may not function properly. This can damage the blood vessels of the brain, heart, and kidneys, resulting in a stroke, heart failure, or kidney failure. High blood pressure may also increase the risk of heart attacks. These problems may be less likely to occur if blood pressure is controlled.

Spironolactone is also used to help increase the amount of potassium in the body when it is getting too low.

Potassium-sparing diuretics help to reduce the amount of water in the body by acting on the kidneys to increase the flow of urine. This also helps to lower blood pressure.

These medicines can also be used for other conditions as determined by your doctor.

Potassium-sparing diuretics are available only with your doctor's prescription, in the following dosage forms:

Oral
• Amiloride
  • Tablets (U.S. and Canada)
• Spironolactone
  • Tablets (U.S. and Canada)
• Triamterene
  • Capsules (U.S.)
  • Tablets (Canada)

Brand Names

Some commonly used brand names are:

In the U.S. -

• Aldactone ²
• Dyrenium ³
• Midamor ¹

In Canada -

• Aldactone ²
• Dyrenium ³
• Midamor ¹
• Novospiroton ²