This can trigger a condition called hyperkalemia, which can become serious. However, potassium-sparing diuretics may cause potassium levels to spike. Unlike thiazide, thiazide-like, and loop diuretics, these water pills do not cause potassium levels to drop. Stay hydrated when taking these pills and get regular blood tests to ensure the medication isn’t damaging your kidneys.Ĭommon loop diuretics include furosemide (Lasix), torsemide, and bumetanide (Bumex). Loop diuretics are often administered in emergencies.īecause they are so strong, loop diuretics have been known to remove electrolytes such as potassium from the blood. Loop diuretics tend to be the most effective at eliminating excess fluid, making them the preferred option for relieving edema, especially for people with heart failure. Thiazide and thiazide-like diuretics such as hydrochlorothiazide and chlorthalidone can be taken for a long period of time. These are the most commonly used water pills typically prescribed for the treatment of high blood pressure.Īt higher concentrations, these can also be taken for edema. These types include: Thiazide and thiazide-like diuretics market.ĭiuretics are typically divided into classes based on how they work in the kidney. Several types of diuretics are available on the U.S. These can be taken to promote fluid balance and to stop menstrual and regular bloating.Ĭaffeine-free options are also available. Name-brand Diurex and generic versions of the drug are available over the counter in different forms at most leading pharmacies. They also may decrease eye pressure in patients with glaucoma. This makes it easier for the heart to pump blood around the body.įor people with edema, diuretics can reduce swelling in the legs. They also treat kidney problems, liver problems, and heart failure.īy removing excess fluid in the body, there is less total fluid in the blood vessels. The body turns this waste into urine that is passed to the bladder and excreted during urination.ĭiuretics essentially teach your kidneys to expel more fluid.Įach type of water pill does this in a slightly different way.ĭiuretics are usually the first type of medication prescribed to help manage blood pressure. On average, the kidneys filter waste and extra fluids from more than 200 liters of blood per day.
These medications are intended to help with bloating or slight swelling.ĭo not take them as a replacement for or in conjunction with prescription diuretics unless advised by your doctor. The main ingredient in most OTC diuretics is caffeine or pamabrom. While some diuretic pills are only available by prescription, others are sold over the counter.
Can You Get Diuretics (Water Pills) Over the Counter?
I’ll also explain when to see a medical provider about taking diuretics. In this article, I’ll discuss if you can get diuretics over the counter, how water pills work, and the best over-the-counter diuretic pills. Sometimes referred to as water pills, diuretics are often thought of as a way to lose water weight.īut they are also prescribed to treat a range of medical conditions including hypertension ( high blood pressure), edema, heart failure, and hyperkalemia (high potassium). Over the counter Diuretic pills may help you shed the water weight. If you are bloated, you may be carrying excess water that your body is not dispelling.
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