Loop Diuretics

Loop diuretics – also known as high ceiling diuretics or high efficacy diuretics – are drugs which inhibit  Na+ K+ 2Cl- transporters in the thick ascending limb of loop of Henle to increase production of urine. Eg: Frusemide, Bumetanide, Torasemide

Uses of loop diuretics:

1. Edema due to all etiologies – cardiac, renal, hepatic. 
2. Left ventricular failure – frusemide is given intravenously which acts as a pulmonary venodilator thus decreasing left ventricle preload, decreases venous return and blood volume by its diuretic action
3. Cerebral edema – can be combined with osmotic diuretics
4. Hypertension – indicated in renal insufficiency, congestive heart failure, resistant cases, hypertensive emergencies
5. Blood transfusion – to prevent fluid overload
6. Hypercalcemia, renal stones – Frusemide increases calcium excretion