The following ADRs to diuretics are particularly relevant to the elderly: hypokalemia, resulting in cardiac arrhythmias and muscular weakness (adynamia); hyponatremia, resulting in cerebral symp- toms, including dementia aggravation, and in muscle cramping; and hypovolemia, with orthostatic symptoms, including falls

Side effects of diuretics in elderly

• Some diuretics are sulfa drugs, so they could cause a reaction if you’re allergic. Older people tend to have more side effects such as fainting and dizziness from dehydration. You’ll need to work closely with your doctor.

Seniors are commonly overprescribed diuretic medications, leading to risks of adverse drug reactions, cardiac arrhythmias, brain damage and even death, according to research published in this month’s issue of JAMDA.

What are the most common side effects of diuretics?

The more common side effects of diuretics include: too little potassium in the blood. too much potassium in the blood (for potassium-sparing diuretics) low sodium levels. headache . dizziness . thirst . increased blood sugar. muscle cramps .

What are the negative effects of diuretics?

Side effects Diuretics are generally safe. Side effects include increased urination and sodium loss. Diuretics can also affect blood potassium levels. If you take a thiazide diuretic , your potassium level can drop too low (hypokalemia), which can cause life-threatening problems with your heartbeat.

Are water pills bad for your kidneys?

Diuretics . Doctors use these medicines, also known as water pills , to treat high blood pressure and some kinds of swelling. They help your body get rid of extra fluid . But they can sometimes dehydrate you, which can be bad for your kidneys .

How long do diuretic side effects last?

The effect will last for about 6 hours so if you are taking the tablets twice a day make sure you take the last dose in the afternoon at least 8 hours before going to bed.

What happens when diuretics no longer work?

Diuretic resistance is a significant problem in patients with advanced HF. The inability to relieve congestive symptoms leads to increased hospitalizations, ED visits, increased costs of care and worsening quality of life.

What is the strongest diuretic?

Loop diuretics are the most potent diuretics as they increase the elimination of sodium and chloride by primarily preventing reabsorption of sodium and chloride .

Does Lasix hurt your kidneys?

Diuretics. Water pills like hydrochlorothiazide and furosemide , used for high blood pressure and edema, can cause dehydration and can also lead to swelling and inflammation of the kidneys .

What diuretics are safe for kidneys?

Description of the intervention Commonly used thiazide diuretics include chlorthalidone, hydrochlorothiazide, indapamide and metolazone. Bumetanide, furosemide and torsemide are frequently used loop diuretics . Frequently‐administered potassium‐sparing diuretics are triamterene, amiloride, spironolactone and eplerenone.

Do diuretics make you poop?

Because diuretics make you urinate more often, these drugs can cause constipation. Remedies for heartburn and indigestion often contain aluminum, which can slow down your system and cause constipation.

What is the first sign of kidney problems?

Signs and symptoms of acute kidney failure may include: Decreased urine output, although occasionally urine output remains normal. Fluid retention, causing swelling in your legs, ankles or feet. Shortness of breath .

What medications are bad for kidneys?

Which Drugs are Harmful to Your Kidneys? Pain Medications. Your kidneys could be damaged if you take large amounts of over-the-counter medications , such as aspirin , naproxen and ibuprofen . Alcohol. Antibiotics . Prescription Laxatives . Contrast Dye (used in some diagnostic tests such as MRIs) Illegal Drugs. What should you do?

What medications should be avoided with kidney disease?

5 Drugs You May Need to Avoid or Adjust if You Have Kidney Cholesterol medications . The dosing of certain cholesterol medications , known as ” statins “, may need to be adjusted if you have chronic kidney disease. Pain medications . Anti-microbial meds. Diabetes medications. Upset stomach/antacid medications.

How do I stop taking diuretics?

One is to gradually reduce the dose to nothing. The other (and better way) is to place the patient on a low sodium diet so that only a small amount of sodium can be retained when diuretic treatment is stopped . Many patients are being unnecessarily treated with diuretics , which are not without adverse effects.

Do diuretics make you tired?

Not surprisingly, one of the most common side effects of taking water pills is frequent urination. Other possible side effects include lightheadedness, fatigue , bowel changes, and muscle cramps.

When should you not take furosemide?

If you ‘re ill with a fever (a high temperature above 38C), sweats and shaking, being sick (vomiting) or have severe diarrhoea, contact your doctor as you may need to stop taking furosemide for 1 to 2 days until you are better.