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USMLE
The Renal System and Diuretics Pharmacology
Diuretic-induced hypokalemia can have clinically significant consequences, so it’s important to know which diuretics are potassium-wasting and which spare (reduce net renal excretion of) potassium because potassium-sparing diuretics play an important role in preventing hypokalemia or treating asymptomatic deficiencies of this cation. Which of the following is classified as potassium-sparing?
Explanation
ExplanationAmiloride is potassium-sparing. Its mechanism of action is largely similar to that of triamterene and is aldosterone-independent. The other main potassium-sparing diuretic, spironolactone, causes natriuresis and potassium loss by blocking aldosterone receptors.
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