What is a common side effect of thiazide diuretics?

Thiazide diuretics are commonly prescribed medications used for managing hypertension and edema. One of the well-known side effects of thiazide diuretics is hypokalemia, which is characterized by low levels of potassium in the blood.

Thiazides work by inhibiting sodium reabsorption in the distal convoluted tubule of the nephron, leading to increased excretion of sodium and water. Along with sodium, thiazide diuretics also promote the excretion of potassium. This can lead to a significant decrease in potassium levels, especially in patients who may not have adequate dietary potassium intake or who are on additional medications that also lower potassium levels.

Patients taking thiazide diuretics should be monitored for serum potassium levels, and potassium supplementation may be necessary if hypokalemia develops. This risk of hypokalemia is an important aspect to be aware of when treating patients with thiazide diuretics, making it a critical consideration in clinical practice.