The New Oral Diuretic Agents and Their Clinical Applications

Abstract

New oral diuretics have simplified the management of various edematous states and offered new therapeutic approaches to hypertension and diabetes insipidus. They have largely supplanted older oral diuretics and have curtailed but not eliminated the need for parenteral organomercurial diuretics. The sulfonamide derivatives are effective in most edematous states. Spironolactone, an aldosterone antagonist, is a helpful adjunct in management of refractory cases of nephrotic syndrome, cirrhotic edema and congestive heart failure. All potent diuretics must be used cautiously and judiciously in the presence of renal failure with nitrogen retention.