The most commonly used diuretic to treat high blood pressure in the world is called hydrochlorothiazide. Diuretics work by increasing the amount of salt and fluid that you pass out in your urine. This has some effect on reducing the fluid in the circulation which reduces blood pressure. They may also have a 'relaxing' effect on the blood vessels which reduces the pressure within the blood vessels. Only a low dose of a diuretic is needed to treat high blood pressure. There are three primary types of diuretics: thiazides block sodium absorption from the kidney back into the blood. They are either taken alone for mild-to-moderate high blood pressure or used in combination with other types of drugs. There are many thiazides and thiazide-containing drugs. Loop diuretics block sodium absorption from the kidney back into the blood. They tend to act faster than thiazides and have a great diuretic effect. Potassium-sparing agents - spironolactone (Aldactone) blocks the action of aldosterone, so that more potassium is left in the blood, and more sodium and water are excreted in the urine.
Generic Aldactone is used for treating swelling and fluid retention in patients with congestive heart failure, cirrhosis or kidney problems (nephrotic syndrome). It is also used for treatment of high blood pressure. It may also be used to treat or prevent low blood potassium.
More info »Generic Lasix is used for treating high blood pressure or water retention (swelling) associated with congestive heart failure, liver disease or kidney disease.
More info »Generic Microzide is a thiazide diuretic that helps prevent your body from absorbing too much salt, which can cause fluid retention. It is used for treating high blood pressure.
More info »The loop and thiazide diuretics deplete the body's supply of potassium, which, if left untreated, increases the risk for arrhythmias. Arrhythmias are heart rhythm disturbances that can, in rare instances, lead to cardiac arrest. If potassium levels are lowered, physicians will prescribe lower doses of the current diuretic, recommend potassium supplements, or use potassium-sparing diuretics. Potassium-sparing drugs have their own risks, which include raising potassium to dangerously high levels, particularly in people who started out with somewhat high potassium or those with damaged kidneys. You should also have a blood test to check that your blood potassium has not been affected within 4-6 weeks of starting treatment with a diuretic.