Which adverse effect is associated with potassium-sparing diuretics?

Which adverse effect is associated with potassium-sparing diuretics?

• A. Hyperkalemia
• B. Hypokalemia
• C. Hyponatremia
• D. Hypomagnesemia

Answer: (B)

Potassium-sparing diuretics raise serum potassium by blocking aldosterone effects or by inhibiting sodium channels in the distal nephron, which reduces potassium excretion in the collecting duct. This makes hyperkalemia the typical adverse effect. The risk is higher with kidney impairment or when combined with ACE inhibitors, ARBs, or NSAIDs, so monitoring potassium and avoiding additional potassium intake are important. Although many diuretics cause potassium loss and hypokalemia, these agents preserve or increase potassium, so hypokalemia is not expected. Hyponatremia and hypomagnesemia are not their primary adverse effects.

Potassium-sparing diuretics raise serum potassium by blocking aldosterone effects or by inhibiting sodium channels in the distal nephron, which reduces potassium excretion in the collecting duct. This makes hyperkalemia the typical adverse effect. The risk is higher with kidney impairment or when combined with ACE inhibitors, ARBs, or NSAIDs, so monitoring potassium and avoiding additional potassium intake are important. Although many diuretics cause potassium loss and hypokalemia, these agents preserve or increase potassium, so hypokalemia is not expected. Hyponatremia and hypomagnesemia are not their primary adverse effects.