Drugs That Affect Urine Output

Flashcards covering key vocabulary and concepts related to drugs affecting urine output and the renal system.

Renal System

The system in the body that consists of kidneys, ureters, urinary bladder, and urethra; responsible for the manufacture and excretion of urine.

Diuretics

Medications that increase urine output; commonly referred to as 'water pills'.

Natriuretic

A type of diuretic that increases sodium excretion in the urine.

Loop Diuretics

A class of diuretics that are considered the most powerful, e.g. furosemide (Lasix).

Thiazide Diuretics

Diuretics that prevent sodium and potassium from reabsorbing into the blood, e.g. hydrochlorothiazide (HCTZ).

Potassium-Sparing Diuretics

Diuretics that help retain potassium in the body and prevent its loss in the urine.

OAB (Overactive Bladder)

A condition characterized by sudden, involuntary contractions of the bladder muscle, leading to a frequent urge to urinate.

Urinary Antispasmodics

Medications used to treat OAB; examples include oxybutynin and tolterodine.

Hypotension

A condition of abnormally low blood pressure, which may occur as a side effect of certain diuretics.

Hyperkalemia

An elevated level of potassium in the blood that can occur with potassium-sparing diuretics.

Patient Teaching for Diuretics

Instructions provided to patients including monitoring weights, avoiding late dosing, and recognizing signs of potassium imbalance.