Diuretics

Diuretics stocked at PCTMart, and how they differ

Four molecules cover this category, and they are not variations on a theme. Spironolactone, stocked at 25MG, 50MG and 100MG under brands including Aldactone and Silectone, is potassium-sparing and also blocks androgen receptors, which is why it appears in acne and hair treatment as well as in heart failure. Hydrochlorothiazide and indapamide, the latter available as Natrilix and Natrilix SR, are thiazide and thiazide-like agents used mainly for blood pressure. Torasemide is a loop diuretic, more powerful and faster-acting, used where fluid overload is the problem.

Potassium is the difference that matters most

The potassium difference is the one that matters most. Thiazides and loop diuretics lower potassium; spironolactone raises it. Combining spironolactone with a potassium supplement, with an ACE inhibitor or ARB, or with potassium-rich salt substitutes can push potassium high enough to affect heart rhythm. In the other direction, low potassium from a thiazide has its own consequences. This is why blood tests accompany treatment, particularly when starting or after a dose change.

Timing, and symptoms worth reporting

Practical points follow from how they work. Taking a dose earlier in the day avoids being woken repeatedly at night. Dizziness on standing, cramps, unusual thirst or muscle weakness are worth reporting rather than tolerating. Anti-inflammatories blunt the effect of diuretics and add kidney strain, a combination that catches people out. Spironolactone can cause breast tenderness and enlargement in men at higher doses.

Illness, hot weather and dehydration

Dehydration during hot weather or a stomach upset is a genuine risk, and some treatment plans include pausing during illness, so ask your doctor whether yours does.

Tracking fluid at home

Weighing yourself at the same time each day is the simplest way to track fluid shifts where a diuretic is being used for heart failure, and a rapid gain over a few days is the signal clinicians ask patients to watch for.

Sourcing, expiry dates and delivery

Every listing shows the molecule, strength, whether it is a sustained-release form, and the pack size, with the guaranteed minimum expiry date displayed. All stock ships from India through licensed distributors.