Potassium-Sparring Diuretics (aka Aldosterone Antagonists)

Question 1

There are three drugs in this class of medications, can you name them ?

Answer 1

Prototype: spironolactone [Aldactone]
triamterene [Dyrenium]
eplerenone [Inspra]

Question 2

What is the expected action of this type of diuretic? Think about the name & you will get this

Answer 2

Block the action of aldosterone (sodium and water retention) which results in potassium retention and water excretion.

Question 3

When or what conditions is this group of drugs used?

Answer 3

To treat HTN and edema, & HF

Question 4

Can you name a few patient or client teaching points about this class of medication?

Answer 4

Avoid salt substitutes, keep a B/P log, report cramps, diarrhea, thirst , altered menses or deep voice.

Question 5

What are a few adverse reactions?

Answer 5

Hyperkalemia, deep voice, impotence, irregular menses, gynecomastia, hirsutism

Question 6

What are a few contraindications?

Answer 6

Do not administer to persons who have kidney or liver disease