Loop diuretics are diuretics that act at the ascending limb of the loop of Henle in the kidney. They are primarily used in medicine to treat hypertension and edema often due to congestive heart failure or chronic kidney disease.
What does a loop diuretic do?
Loop diuretics are the most potent diuretics that reduce ECF, cardiac output, and blood pressure. The mechanism of action for loop diuretics like furosemide is by inhibiting the apical sodium/potassium/chloride transporter in the thick ascending limb of the loop of Henle.
What is the most common loop diuretic?
Examples of loop diuretics include:
- Bumetanide (Bumex)
- Ethacrynic acid (Edecrin)
- Furosemide (Lasix)
- Torsemide (Soaanz)
