Florida State Paramedic Practice Exam

What are common side effects of diuretics?

1. Hyperkalemia

2. Hypokalemia

3. Weight gain

4. Increased appetite

The correct answer is: Hypokalemia

Diuretics are medications commonly used to promote the excretion of water and electrolytes through the urine, primarily for conditions such as hypertension and edema. When considering their side effects, hypokalemia, or low potassium levels, is a well-documented risk. This occurs particularly with loop diuretics and thiazide diuretics, which enhance the renal excretion of potassium. The mechanism behind hypokalemia relates to how diuretics affect electrolyte balance. As diuretics increase urine output, they can lead to the loss of potassium in addition to sodium and water. This electrolyte imbalance can result in symptoms such as muscle weakness, cramps, and arrhythmias, thus making it a significant concern in patients on these medications. The other options presented do not align with the common side effects associated with diuretics. Hyperkalemia, which is an excess of potassium, may occur with potassium-sparing diuretics but is not a common side effect for the majority of diuretics. Weight gain and increased appetite are not typical side effects of diuretics; instead, these medications usually lead to weight loss due to fluid reduction. Understanding these distinctions is essential for the safe management of patients prescribed diuretics.