Understanding the drugs used in the renal system is crucial for pharmacy techs. In this video, we'll review key medications and their mechanisms for drugs of the renal system. Urinary antispasmodics, such as tolteridine under the brand name Detrol LA, sulafenicin with the brand name Vesicare, and darfenicin with the brand name Enablex, are used to manage overactive bladder.
They help bladder contractions and the urge to urinate. Let's conclude our lesson on renal system drugs by reviewing the common diuretics we've discussed. Loop diuretics, such as furosemide, known as Lasix, are used to treat edema and hypertension. They inhibit sodium and chloride reabsorption in the loop of Henle within the nephron, increasing urine output and reducing fluid overload.
Loop diuretics can cause low sodium levels, or hyponatremia, and low blood pressure, or hypotension. due to increased urine output and fluid loss. Potassium-sparing diuretics like triamterine, known as diureneum, are also used to treat edema and hypertension. They work by blocking sodium channels in the distal tubule of the nephron, reducing sodium reabsorption and preventing potassium loss, thus maintaining electrolyte balance.
Another alternative is thiazide diuretics, such as hydrochlorothiazide, known as microzide or acidrix, or the combination of different diuretics such as triamterine and hydrochlorothiazide in the product with the brand name diazide or maxide. These medications can also manage hypertension and edema by inhibiting sodium reabsorption, increasing urine output, and reducing blood pressure. Reviewing these key medications and understanding their mechanisms help pharmacy techs support patients effectively.
Use your handouts and flashcards to ace these medications.