Potassium-Sparing Diuretics

Question 1

What are the 2 types of potassium-sparing diuretics?

Answer 1

• Epithelial sodium channel blockers (amiloride)
• Aldosterone antagonists (Spironolactone & eplerenone)

Question 2

When is Spironolactone usually indicated?

Answer 2

• Ascites: patients with cirrhosis develop a secondary hyperaldosteronism. Relatively large doses such as 100 or 200mg are often used
• Heart failure
• Nephrotic syndrome
• Conn’s syndrome

Question 3

When is amiloride used?

Answer 3

Usually given with thiazides or loop diuretics as an alternative to potassium supplementation.