Edema of the legs is excessive accumulation of fluid in the tissues of the lower extremities. Many men and women around the world face this pathology. This condition causes a lot of discomfort and leads to many diseases. That is why it is important to know what is the best medicine to take for swollen legs in order to quickly improve your condition.
There is no clear answer as to what medicine to take for swelling of the legs, since the therapeutic program is drawn up individually, taking into account the main reasons that provoked the pathological process and the condition of the patient himself.
If swelling occurs as a result of cardiovascular diseases, kidney diseases or metabolic disorders, then the underlying disease must initially be treated. At the same time, you need to change your usual lifestyle, adjust your diet, and also reduce your fluid intake.
Drug therapy is based on the use of decongestant medications intended for oral administration and external ointments and creams.
It is quite difficult to find a cure for swelling of the legs, since there are a huge number of different drugs. In addition, it is worth remembering that each type of diuretic drugs has certain contraindications, which, if ignored, can adversely affect your health. Among the main types of diuretics, the following should be highlighted:
Thiazide drugs help eliminate swelling of the legs, but not for long, and this does not happen immediately. However, when taking them, there is practically no restriction in fluid and salt intake. Loop medications are highly effective, so they should be taken in the first half of the day. They are characterized by the removal of trace elements from the body, so they must be used very carefully.
The effectiveness of potassium-sparing drugs is quite low, but they do not remove microelements. Mainly used together with other medications. The action of osmotic drugs is aimed at removing excess fluid from tissues. The peculiarity is that it is excreted by the kidneys. In this regard, such medications are contraindicated for people suffering from kidney disease. Combination drugs combine the effects of several drugs at once.
Edema can appear without the development of underlying pathologies, and in this case they are purely physiological in nature. Diuretics are used to treat these types of edema. They are a powerful remedy for swollen legs and work to remove excess fluid from the body. The most popular medicines are:
These drugs help normalize the water-salt balance and prevent excessive fluid accumulation in the tissues of the extremities. Even with a small dosage, the results from using this drug are noticeable almost immediately. To choose the most optimal course of taking the medication, as well as the dosage, you need to consult a doctor. Another feature of them is that they can be combined with other drugs, the action of which is aimed at eliminating the underlying disease.
In some cases, swelling of the legs may occur after medications, which occurs as a result of an allergy. In this case, it is necessary to take not only diuretics, but also antihistamines, which help to quickly eliminate the main signs of allergies.
Edema can occur as a result of impaired activity of the heart muscle or kidneys. To eliminate swelling, you need to carry out a comprehensive treatment that will help get rid of the underlying disease. The most popular medications for cardiac edema of the legs are:
As a result of the influence of such drugs, blood vessels relax. As a result, blood circulation is normalized. All medications are characterized by a duration of action and a rapid onset of therapeutic effect.
Diuretic medications for swelling of the legs are prescribed in the presence of kidney disease. In this case, loop diuretics and potassium-sparing drugs are prescribed. Among these medications, it is necessary to highlight the following:
Only a qualified doctor should prescribe medications. The required dosage is selected strictly individually, taking into account the patient’s well-being and the results of the studies.
Medicine for swollen legs helps eliminate the swelling that occurs with varicose veins. However, it is worth remembering that solving this problem requires an integrated approach. When carrying out therapy, phlebotonics are often used, in particular such as Detralex and Escusan, as well as blood thinners, for example, Cardiomagnyl, Aspecard.
Such medications help strengthen the walls of blood vessels and normalize blood microcirculation. Swelling goes away very quickly due to blood thinning. In addition, such drugs help to avoid the formation of thrombosis.
Medicine for swelling of the legs can also be applied topically. Anti-edema cream stimulates the outflow of fluid from the extremities and helps eliminate tension. Thanks to a wide variety of such medications, many problems that cause discomfort can be solved.
It is worth remembering that ointments and creams cannot solve the main problem; they only eliminate discomfort, relieve swelling and heaviness in the legs.
Basically, ointments and creams against swelling contain the following components:
In addition, the composition may include other components, it all depends on the drug. Such drugs are considered universal, as they help solve many problems, in particular such as:
This remedy will help get rid of discomfort after a hard day at work, as well as eliminate tension.
Among the most popular ointments and creams that help eliminate swelling of the legs, the following should be highlighted:
"Troxevasin" helps eliminate swelling, inflammation, and pain. In addition, it strengthens blood vessels and veins. Heparin ointment helps normalize blood circulation and has an anti-inflammatory effect.
"Venitan" refers to herbal preparations. It is made from chestnut extract. This remedy has anti-inflammatory and anti-edematous effects.
Quite often during pregnancy, swelling of the legs is observed. Treatment with medications has a positive effect and helps to quickly eliminate the existing problem. The occurrence of swelling during pregnancy is due to an increase in the volume of blood required to nourish the mother and fetus. In this regard, the normal functioning of a woman may be disrupted, since swelling causes significant discomfort, especially in the last months of pregnancy.
Not all medications can be used by pregnant women, so it is advisable to consult a doctor. It is best to use herbal products to eliminate puffiness. The most popular are Mamacomfort, MamaCare, Senosan. Such products help normalize metabolism, improve lymphatic drainage and prevent fluid accumulation. Among the medications prescribed for pregnant women are:
Other drugs are prescribed only if there is a significant risk, as they can be very dangerous for the fetus.
Medicine for swelling of the legs for the elderly must be selected with special care, since in old age metabolic processes are disrupted, so the drugs must have a complex effect. Swelling can be permanent or occur periodically.
Lasix and ethacrynic acid are ideal for older people, as they help very quickly get rid of even the most severe swelling. In addition, the doctor may prescribe drugs such as Clopamide, Diuretin, Oxodolin. Additionally, older patients should take vitamins.
Many patients believe that the best diuretic is Furasemide. This drug has the most positive reviews. This product is characterized by affordable cost and high effectiveness.
Some note the high effectiveness of the drug "Hypothiazide", which helps eliminate even the most severe swelling. Diacarb is considered a good remedy, but the body gets used to it very quickly.
Diuretics (tablets, solutions) have become quite firmly established in our lives. They are used to correct the acid-base balance in the body. After all, they perfectly remove excess acid and alkali from it. Diuretic tablets, the list of which is quite impressive, are used in the treatment of poisoning, some injuries (especially when it comes to head injuries), and to combat hypertension. But, unfortunately, not everyone knows not only the mechanism of action of these drugs, but also the side effects that they can cause. And improper use of diuretics can lead to serious complications.
Diuretic tablets are used to treat many ailments. The list of effective drugs continues to grow today. Diuretics are also called diuretics.
Their main goal is to remove excess water, chemicals, and salts from the body, which tend to accumulate in the walls of blood vessels and tissues. In addition, diuretics have a positive effect on water-salt balance.
If a large number of sodium ions accumulate in the body, then subcutaneous tissue begins to be deposited. It has a very negative effect on the functioning of the kidneys, heart, and hematopoietic system. As a result, the patient develops a variety of diseases and disorders.
In addition, diuretics are in great demand in sports medicine. They are often used for weight loss. Very often, diuretics (tablets) are included in complex therapy to combat various ailments.
Based on their effect on the body, modern diuretics are divided into two main forms. The first category of drugs affects the process of urine formation directly in the kidneys. The second form of diuretics is responsible for the hormonal regulation of urine production.
There is a lot of information that diuretic tablets, the list of which is given below, also easily solve cosmetic problems. However, many people believe that such drugs are completely safe. Some women take these medications on their own for weight loss purposes. Athletes widely use drugs before competitions in order to lose weight. Even bodybuilders use them, trying to create artificial dehydration so that the muscles look more prominent.
However, people who take diuretics without a doctor's prescription are at great risk. After all, treatment with diuretics can result in unpleasant consequences. You should know that diuretics can:
Quite often, even those patients who understand the risk believe that the newest drugs “Indapamide”, “Torasemide”, “Arifon” do not have a detrimental effect on metabolism. Such medications are indeed much better tolerated than older generation medications. However, they are also harmful to health. But the negative impact of these funds is revealed much later. It is enough to understand the mechanism of their action. Medicines of the new and old generation are aimed at one thing - stimulating the kidneys to work more intensively. Consequently, they excrete more salt and water.
It is important to understand that fluid retention in the body is a symptom of a serious illness. Swelling cannot occur on its own. It is provoked by serious disruptions in the functioning of the kidneys, heart, and sometimes other reasons. Consequently, diuretics are drugs (their list is very extensive) with exclusively symptomatic action. Unfortunately, they do not get rid of the cause of the disease. Thus, medications only delay the unpleasant ending for patients. Therefore, people who want to improve their health and fight a real disease should not make do with diuretics alone, much less use them themselves.
To this day, there is no single system according to which all diuretics are divided, since all drugs have different chemical structures and have different effects on the body systems. Therefore, it is impossible to create an ideal classification.
Often the division occurs according to the mechanism of action. According to this classification, there are:
For good effect, potent agents can be used. The following diuretic tablets are used for edema:
The above drugs are recommended to be taken in short courses. Be sure to take a break between doses. This eliminates the body’s addiction to medications and prevents the pronounced therapeutic effect.
Medium-strength diuretic tablets can also be used for edema:
Such drugs are used for a long time and continuously. The recommended dose is determined by the attending physician. As a rule, it is about 25 mg per day.
For minor edema, potassium-sparing diuretics, such as Spironolactone, Amiloride, and Triamterene, are more suitable. They are taken in courses (2-3 weeks) at intervals of 10-14 days.
Diuretic medications that are used for high blood pressure fall into two categories:
Potent medications can stop a hypertensive crisis. The most popular drug is Furosemide. Its price is low. The following remedies are no less effective during a crisis:
The duration of taking the above medications can be 1-3 days. After stopping the crisis, they switch from such potent drugs to medications that can maintain blood pressure at the required level every day.
The second category includes means of medium impact. The most popular drugs are:
These medications are taken daily as prescribed by your doctor. They perfectly maintain the optimal pressure level.
As a result of this pathology, fluid retention in the body often occurs. This phenomenon creates stagnation of blood in the lungs. The patient exhibits many unpleasant symptoms, such as shortness of breath, swelling, enlarged liver, and wheezing in the heart.
For people with heart failure, the doctor must introduce a diuretic into therapy. It perfectly prevents severe consequences such as pulmonary edema and cardiogenic shock. At the same time, diuretics increase patients' tolerance to physical activity.
For patients with the first and second degrees of the disease, a good diuretic is a thiazide drug. In case of more serious pathology, the patient is transferred to a strong drug - a loop diuretic. In some cases, the drug Spironolactone is additionally prescribed. It is especially important to take such a remedy if the patient has developed hypokalemia.
If the effect of using the drug Furosemide weakens, cardiologists recommend replacing it with the drug Torasemide. It has been noted that the latter remedy has a more beneficial effect on the body in severe forms of heart failure.
The medicine is a fast-acting diuretic. Its effect occurs after taking it for 20 minutes. The duration of the drug's effect is about 4-5 hours.
This remedy is effective not only for stopping a hypertensive crisis. According to the instructions, the medicine helps with heart failure, swelling of the brain and lungs, and chemical poisoning. It is often prescribed for late toxicosis during pregnancy.
However, the product also has strict contraindications. The drug is not used in the first trimester of pregnancy. It should not be used by patients with renal failure, people who have hypoglycemia, or urinary tract obstruction.
The cost of the drug "Furosemide" is low. The price is approximately 19 rubles.
The medicine is a fast-acting remedy. The drug "Furosemide" undergoes biotransformation in the kidneys, so it is not suitable for all patients. A more effective medicine for people suffering from kidney diseases is the drug "Torasemide", since it undergoes biotransformation in the liver. But with pathologies of this organ, the medicine can cause serious harm.
After just 15 minutes, the effect on the body begins (as stated in the instructions for use attached to the drug "Torasemide"). The price of the product varies from 205 to 655 rubles.
Long-term studies have confirmed the high effectiveness of the drug in heart failure. In addition, the drug perfectly removes salts and liquid. At the same time, the loss of potassium by the body is insignificant, since the effective remedy blocks the hormone aldosterone.
The medicine is very effective for hypertension (severe and moderate). The product perfectly reduces blood pressure and maintains its optimal level throughout the day. In addition, it prevents an increase in this indicator in the morning.
You need to take the medicine once a day, 1 tablet, as evidenced by the instructions included in the drug “Indapamide”. The price of the product varies on average from 22 to 110 rubles.
Before taking it, you should familiarize yourself with the contraindications, since this excellent remedy is not suitable for all patients suffering from hypertension. The drug is not intended for people who have problems with the kidneys or liver. Pregnant and nursing mothers are prohibited from taking the medicine. In case of cerebral circulation failure, anuria, hypokalemia, the drug is contraindicated.
The medicine is a mild diuretic. It is recommended to use it in combination with another diuretic drug, Hydrochlorothiazide. Thanks to this combination, it is possible to reduce the loss of potassium by the body. The drug Triamterene has a beneficial effect. The instructions position it as a potassium-sparing agent.
The medicine should be used strictly according to the prescribed dosage. People with impaired kidney function may experience an unpleasant side effect: increased potassium levels. Sometimes the product can lead to dehydration. When interacting with folic acid, the medicine helps increase red blood cells.
The cost of the product is 316 rubles.
The medicine is a potassium- and magnesium-sparing agent. At the same time, it effectively removes sodium and chlorine from the body. After starting to take the drug, the diuretic effect occurs approximately 2-5 days.
The medicine can be prescribed for hypertension, chronic heart failure, liver cirrhosis, nephrotic syndrome. The use of Spironolactone is effective for swelling in the 2nd and 3rd trimester of pregnancy.
The drug is not intended for people diagnosed with diabetes mellitus, renal or liver failure, or anuria. It is forbidden to use the product in the first trimester of pregnancy. In case of hyponatremia, hyperkalemia, hypercalcemia, the drug is contraindicated. It should not be administered to people with Addison's disease.
Side effects may also occur when taking the medicine. In some cases, the drug provokes urticaria, itching, drowsiness, headache, diarrhea or constipation.
The cost of the product is about 54 rubles.
Many patients are interested in the opinions of those people who are already taking diuretic pills. Reviews usually contain information about effectiveness and side effects.
People facing a hypertensive crisis confirm that the drug Furosemide can help very quickly and effectively. However, at the same time, they emphasize that the drug should be used only as prescribed by a doctor and in recommended doses.
The effectiveness of the product is also confirmed by pregnant women who use the drug in the last months of pregnancy. Patients claim that it perfectly relieved swelling.
However, abusing the drug is strictly prohibited. After all, the drug "Furosemide" is quite easily addictive. In addition, the product removes potassium from the body. After long-term use, patients may experience seizures.
The drug “Indapamide” is in high demand. Hypertensive patients are often prescribed this remedy. There is an opinion among patients that the medicine is well tolerated by the body. In this case, the diuretic effect is favorable. There are no negative opinions about the drug.
The drug Torasemide has a good effect on the body. Patients who take the drug strictly as prescribed by a doctor and under his supervision say that the drug is very effective. It perfectly relieves puffiness. At the same time, patients do not experience any problems in the form of side effects.
Other diuretic tablets also bring favorable results to the body. Reviews of the drug Spironolactone indicate a strong diuretic effect. However, patients claim that the drug should be used only as prescribed by a doctor and in appropriate doses.
Before taking a diuretic, be sure to tell your doctor about all the medications you are taking. In addition, an important factor in selecting the necessary medicine is the presence of chronic ailments. You should not take such medications without permission. It is necessary to strictly follow the doctor's instructions. Take the drug at the appointed time (this will avoid unpleasant awakenings at night) and only in the dosage that was prescribed to you. Such simple truths will allow you not to experience the severe consequences of taking diuretics.
When you feel an excruciating heaviness in your legs, and your favorite shoes are squeezing your feet, it’s time to buy pills for swelling of the feet. There are quite a lot of products in pharmacy kiosks that allow you to get rid of an unpleasant problem. Typically, popular diuretics and drugs to increase the elasticity of the walls of blood vessels are used to combat the disease. It is important that medications are selected by a specialist who will take into account the problems that lead to swelling.
Few women can boast that while carrying a baby, they did not suffer from heaviness in their legs. Almost everyone experiences swelling in recent weeks, but how to get rid of it? If the expectant mother does not have various pathologies that could provoke the problem, then herbal diuretics are prescribed for her. You cannot take medicine from the general list, as it can harm the unborn child.
The following drugs are very popular and are used for a long time for pregnant women:
No other medications are prescribed when carrying a child; there is a risk of developing pathology in the fetus. In order not to provoke swelling in the legs, doctors advise reducing salt intake, since it inhibits the natural removal of fluid from the body.
Cranberry juice has a good diuretic effect. It needs to be included in the diet, which will help fight the problem. A regular compote is made from the berries and drunk throughout the day.
It is prohibited to resort to traditional medicine. During pregnancy, a woman is responsible not only for her own health, but also for the development of the unborn baby. A number of herbal remedies, even those sold in pharmacies, can cause miscarriage. Therefore, at the first manifestations of swelling in the lower extremities, you should immediately see a doctor to prescribe therapeutic therapy.
All edema in the body is classified as stagnation, which is why diuretics are indicated to get rid of them. Furosemide is considered a well-known drug in this area. An important factor is that it can be prescribed even to patients with renal failure.
But it also has disadvantages that are associated with the rapid achievement of a therapeutic effect.
Furosemide has a hypotensive effect on the body, resulting in a weakening of blood flow. Patients with hypotension will have to avoid treatment with this medication.
But there is no need to worry, since in addition to this remedy there are others that can help in this situation. Doctors can use a number of other diuretics that will help relieve swelling of the legs:
Swelling of the legs can be successfully treated with any of the listed drugs; it is important that they are prescribed by the attending physician. Before recommendations are issued, specialists conduct laboratory tests. With their help, they get a complete picture of the patient’s condition and consider the possibility of an allergic reaction.
However, as medical practice shows, unpleasant side effects occur after taking diuretics.
If the patient does not consult a doctor and is treated with these drugs without control, serious complications may develop. Among them are:
Sometimes the reason why a limb swells is the low elasticity of the vascular wall and its high permeability. In such a situation, taking diuretics will not give a long-term effect, and often provokes a worsening of the condition. Doctors suggest the use of complex treatment, which includes medications that strengthen blood vessels. In addition, it would not be superfluous to prescribe medications that will help normalize venous circulation.
Now at the peak of popularity are Detralex, Phlebodia and Venarus, which have a similar composition. Treatment with any of the above remedies gives a good effect. Typically, tablets are taken in courses that must be repeated after a certain period of time. Regardless of whether there is swelling or not, you should not ignore the treatment schedule.
The price of a package of medicine is 800-1000 rubles. For this reason, some prefer cheaper analogues. However, they will not see the same obvious effect as from the original.
Angioprotectors and venotonics have proven themselves in the fight against the described problem. Regular use involves increasing the tone of blood vessels. In addition, it was noted that the walls of the veins will be less susceptible to stretching.
Improved hemodynamics is achieved by reducing congestion. The effect occurs due to the fact that leukocytes no longer stick to the walls of blood vessels. As a result, there is no blockage of the lumen, and soft tissues do not accumulate excess fluid.
It is important that venotonics almost do not entail the occurrence of side effects. It is quite rare for patients to complain of neurovegetative disorders or dyspeptic problems. Often, pathologies go away without the intervention of specialists and do not require the appointment of special therapy to eliminate them.
Old age implies a failure in metabolic processes. Due to the fact that the aging body cannot cope with the work, swelling occurs. In this case, the pathology can be permanent, or it can appear from time to time. Now almost all pensioners suffer from this phenomenon, but they cannot completely overcome it.
Before carrying out treatment, it is necessary to conduct a high-quality diagnosis. Some older people don't even know that their swelling has a serious cause.
Fluid stagnation can signal problems with the kidneys, heart, and vascular system. This is exactly how chronic lung diseases manifest themselves. Because of this, independent selection of the drug is dangerous, there is a risk of triggering the disease.
Prescribing diuretics to elderly people involves monitoring water-salt metabolism. Loss of potassium threatens serious disruptions in the functioning of the cardiovascular system. For this reason, older people should not take diuretics for a long period. A break is always required between courses, as the body may not be able to cope with the load.
Lasix and ethacrynic acid are prohibited for use in such patients. Since their use involves very rapid relief from edema. They are successfully replaced by Oxodolin, Clopamide, Indylamide and Diuretin. Older patients need vitamins and glucose. This ensures the maintenance of potassium levels and ensures better absorption. Additionally, it is suggested to take Asparkam, potassium orotate and its other analogues.
And of course, this means daily physical activity; a passive lifestyle aggravates the clinical picture, as does the abuse of salty foods and various canned foods.
Problems with fluid retention in the body can manifest themselves not only due to diseases of the internal organs. Part of the population notes a similar problem when there was a long flight or there was an excess of salty food on the table. In such a situation, you can help a person without using tablets and syrups. Simple tips that will tell you how to relieve swelling of the legs at home:
Such simple methods and diuretics prescribed by a doctor help cope with swelling in the legs.
Diuretic tablets for edema are taken to speed up the removal of fluid from the body by increasing the volume of urine excreted. Diuretics (diuretics) can eliminate swelling of any localization that occurs against the background of renal pathologies, heart failure, arterial hypertension and other diseases.
The mechanism of action of diuretics is aimed at removing excess fluid, salts, excess sodium that accumulates in tissues from the body, and increasing the volume of urine. Excessive sodium content in the blood provokes increased vascular tone, their lumens narrow, which can lead to an increase in blood pressure. This is a dangerous condition, especially for people with chronic arterial hypertension. Taking diuretics helps flush out sodium, dilate blood vessels and stabilize blood pressure. Taking diuretics for heart and kidney problems helps get rid of edema and improve the functioning of internal organs.
Diuretics are prescribed strictly according to indications and are used for the following conditions:
Diuretic tablets for swelling of the legs are prescribed when the cause of this condition is renal, hepatic, venous and cardiac pathologies, diabetes mellitus, arterial hypertension, allergic and infectious diseases, diseases of the lymphatic and endocrine systems. The indications for the use of diuretic tablets for facial swelling are the same, but they are prescribed for long-lasting, massive swelling, after a thorough examination and identification of possible contraindications.
Diuretic tablets for swelling of the legs help restore the acid-base balance; they are used for intoxication of the body and in sports medicine.
All diuretics can be divided into several large groups:
These drugs provide a quick diuretic effect due to their direct effect on kidney filtration and are an emergency remedy in the event of massive edema. However, the effect of diuresis is short-term (no more than 6 hours) and, along with urine, potassium and magnesium are lost, which negatively affects the functioning of the heart muscle.
Loop diuretics are effective for impaired renal function; they do not affect cholesterol levels and do not provoke an increase in blood sugar levels. The main disadvantage is the abundance of side effects, so they are taken in short courses.
Diuretics of this group best alleviate the condition of hypertension. They are prescribed as part of a complex treatment; the dose of the drug must be selected by the doctor, since the drugs can reduce the level of potassium and magnesium, and increase the concentration of sugar and uric acid. Thiazides inhibit the absorption of sodium ions and remove it from the body along with excess fluid.
This mechanism of action allows the use of thiazides to eliminate external and internal edema in hypertension, heart failure, nephrotic syndrome and cirrhosis of the liver. The active ingredients of the drugs are quickly absorbed and within 30 minutes they have the necessary therapeutic effect, which lasts for 12 hours.
Just like tazides, this group of medications belongs to the class of saluretics and acts at the level of the distal tubules of the kidneys. However, the diuretic effect of taking such drugs is rather weak and develops slowly, within 2-3 days from the start of therapy.
Therefore, potassium-sparing drugs are prescribed as part of complex therapy in combination with tazides in order to prevent potassium loss in the urine. Diuretics can be prescribed for the treatment of patients with gout and diabetes mellitus, liver cirrhosis and myocarditis with edematous syndrome.
The therapeutic effect of their use develops within 2 weeks from the start of administration and reaches a maximum after 2 months. In terms of their pharmacological action, this group of drugs is close to tazides and is used to lower blood pressure. Diuretics are prescribed with caution for severe kidney damage and disturbances of water and electrolyte metabolism.
Drugs in this group can cause a number of serious adverse reactions from the cardiovascular, nervous and digestive systems. Names of diuretic tablets for edema:
In addition to these drugs, Diacarb (carbonic anhydrase inhibitor) is used to reduce edema. The diuretic is taken for a short time so as not to provoke acid-base imbalance. Diacarb is effective for edema due to chronic cardiac and pulmonary failure.
These are strong diuretic tablets for edema, which are prescribed as “emergency aid” to accelerate the removal of excess fluid and lower blood pressure. The effect of the drug from the group of loop diuretics begins within 30-40 minutes after administration and lasts for 4-6 hours. Furosemide is effective in relieving hypertensive crises, it is prescribed for pulmonary and cardiac edema, and is used as part of the complex treatment of heart failure. This remedy helps alleviate the condition of a pregnant woman with late toxicosis, but in the early stages its use is prohibited.
Taking the drug allows you to reduce blood pressure, relieve stress on the heart muscle, improve the removal of excess fluid in liver and kidney pathologies, and thereby prevent the threat of pulmonary and cerebral edema. The main disadvantage of Furosemide is that, along with the liquid, it removes salts, potassium and magnesium and thereby disrupts the water-electrolyte balance.
For this reason, they try to use Furosemide for a short time, as needed. With longer use, potassium-containing drugs must be taken in parallel with the diuretic. Furosemide is one of the most inexpensive diuretic drugs; a pack of tablets (50 pieces) costs an average of 50 rubles.
A drug with a moderate diuretic effect from the group of tazide diuretics. The therapeutic effect occurs within an hour after taking the tablet and lasts for 6-12 hours (depending on the nature of the edema and the capacity of the kidneys). The long-lasting and mild effect of the drug allows it to be used as part of the complex treatment of hypertension, chronic internal edema in kidney diseases, gestosis during pregnancy, as well as to reduce intracranial and intraocular pressure.
Hypothiazide, like other tazide diuretics, should not be used for a long time, since they increase the excretion of potassium ions from the body and can provoke cardiac complications.
Hypothiazide does not have many contraindications, but the list of adverse reactions is long. Improper use can lead to disturbances in water and electrolyte balance and other serious consequences. When treating cardiac edema, the drug cannot be combined with antiarrhythmic drugs. The dose of the diuretic, frequency of administration and duration of use is determined by the doctor and always recommends taking potassium supplements in parallel. The price of Hypothiazide in pharmacies averages 100 rubles per pack of tablets (20 pcs.).
A drug from the group of potassium-sparing diuretics, with a mild diuretic effect. These are good diuretic tablets for edema that do not cause potassium loss and associated complications. The therapeutic effect develops within 2-3 days after the start of administration, but continues for a long time and persists for several days after discontinuation of the drug.
Veroshpiron is rarely used as a standalone remedy; it is prescribed in combination with potent diuretics to prevent the loss of potassium and magnesium. The drug is used for chronic heart failure, cirrhosis, hypertension, nephrosis, and to eliminate swelling in the late stage of pregnancy. The cost of Veroshpiron is about 60 rubles per package (20 pieces).
A diuretic with a hypotensive and diuretic effect of moderate intensity. Acts directly in the vessels and tissues of the kidneys, increases the excretion of magnesium and potassium, promotes the formation and excretion of a large volume of urine. The duration of the therapeutic effect reaches 24 hours. The drug effectively reduces the load on the heart and reduces the severity of edema of various origins.
The advantages of Indapamide make it possible to use it for arterial hypertension to reduce blood pressure and maintain it at an optimal level throughout the day. At the same time, the diuretic does not interfere with the functional abilities of the kidneys and can be used without harm to health for a long time. Contraindications for use include cerebrovascular accidents, pregnancy, lactation, severe pathologies of the liver and kidneys, hypokalemia, anuria (cessation of urine output).
A drug with a mild diuretic effect and a weak hypotensive effect. Recommended for use for edema of various etiologies, high blood pressure, and at the initial stage of liver cirrhosis. The maximum diuretic effect appears 2 hours after administration and persists for 12-15 hours. The drug is approved for long-term use and can be prescribed even to children. At the same time, the dosage of the drug should be strictly observed so as not to provoke side effects - dyspeptic symptoms or hyponatremia.
The disadvantages of the drug include poor solubility (which can cause the formation of kidney stones) and the risk of developing hyperkalemia. In this case, excess potassium is deposited in the tubules, as a result of which the urine changes color and turns blue. This effect often causes serious anxiety and panic in patients taking the drug. Among other contraindications for use, the manufacturer indicates pregnancy, lactation, individual sensitivity, severe liver and kidney damage. The price of Triamterene is from 250 rubles per pack of 50 pcs.
A drug from the group of loop diuretics with a strong and rapid diuretic effect. The therapeutic effect occurs an hour after taking the tablet and lasts up to 18 hours, which makes the drug easier to tolerate. Torsemide reduces blood pressure well, which makes it possible to use it to alleviate the condition of hypertensive crises, as well as to eliminate edema syndrome in diseases of the heart, liver and kidneys.
This drug has many contraindications and side effects, so it is prescribed strictly according to indications. The dosage of the drug and duration of administration are determined by the attending physician. Torsemide should not be prescribed during pregnancy and lactation, with low blood pressure, arrhythmia, hypersensitivity to components, diabetes mellitus, gout, or in the presence of vascular disorders.
However, compared to Furosemide, this drug is safer, less disrupts the water-electrolyte balance and does not reduce the concentration of potassium, magnesium and lipids in the blood so much. This is the most expensive drug among other diuretics; the price of a package of 10 tablets reaches 900 rubles.
A drug with a weak diuretic effect, sparing potassium, but promoting the excretion of chlorine and sodium. The diuretic effect is insignificant, but in combination with loop or tazide diuretics, Amiloride enhances their therapeutic effect and provides a potassium-sparing effect.
The drug is used in the treatment of heart failure and hypertension to eliminate edema syndrome, it can be taken for a long time. The advantage of a diuretic is the minimal number of side effects. This drug should not be prescribed for hypotension, hyperkalemia, severe pathologies of the kidneys and liver, or hypersensitivity to components. The price of a diuretic in a pharmacy chain is from 200 rubles.
In reviews of diuretic tablets for edema, patients most often mention the drugs Furosemide, Indapamide and Torasemide as the most effective and fast-acting agents that alleviate the condition of hypertensive crisis, cardiac and renal edema. At the same time, many talk about side effects and advise taking diuretics with caution and for a short time.
Along with the diuretic, the doctor prescribes potassium and magnesium supplements, since they are washed out in the urine and this negatively affects the functioning of the heart. As a result, after the course of treatment, my health improves, the swelling disappears, the load on the heart decreases, and I feel much better.
Its effect does not begin immediately, but lasts longer, so it allows you to maintain blood pressure at a normal level throughout the day. Now I am taking this remedy in courses.
Diuretic tablets are the most common way to eliminate edema. It is necessary to consult a doctor to choose an effective remedy and minimize the possible risk of side effects.
Diuretic tablets are a medication that can eliminate swelling of almost any localization. These are first-line drugs (that is, the preferred choice) for edema due to heart failure, hypertension, kidney disease and many other diseases.
The general principle of action of diuretics is based on the effect on renal tissue, or more precisely on reducing the reabsorption of sodium, as a result of which there is a decrease in reabsorption and an increase in urine excretion in the human body.
The modern pharmacological list of diuretics is quite wide. Your doctor will help you choose the right diuretic. It is not recommended to make a choice on your own, focusing only on the name and price; there are often contraindications and features of using this product in each specific case. There are situations in which it is absolutely forbidden to take a diuretic. In addition, how long and how often you can take a diuretic and in what dose should be determined by your doctor.
The modern list of diuretics, which is based on the chemical names of the active ingredients (trade names, that is, those written on the packaging differ even in neighboring countries), includes groups such as:
Each group of drugs has its own advantages and disadvantages, so it is better not to self-medicate for edema that accompanies any chronic pathology.
The list of diuretics in this group includes two subgroups: sodium channel blockers and aldosterone antagonists.
Triamterene (Triampur) quickly and effectively eliminates cardiac edema. It does not have a significant effect on potassium metabolism, therefore it is safer for people with severe heart disease. The dose can be increased as needed; the drug is taken daily.
Amiloride is effective in combination with other drugs in this group, but is safer than thiazide diuretics.
Veroshpiron (spironolactone) is the only drug prescribed during the day, and not in the morning. It has an effect opposite to the hormone aldosterone (competitive antagonism). The maximum effect is observed only on days 2-5 of administration. Effective for most types of edema.
Diuretics that slow down the transport of sodium from the cell.
The list of this group of diuretics is in turn divided into a number of subgroups: thiazide drugs (sulfonamides), carbonic anhydrase inhibitors and loop ones. The oldest remedies, mercury compounds, are not used in modern therapy.
The action of thiazides is based on the enhanced removal of potassium and sodium ions from the human body. The duration and intensity of exposure varies significantly for specific drugs. One of the main disadvantages of thiazides is the risk of hypokalemia, which often leads to complications from the cardiovascular system. That is why thiazides can be taken only for a short time, observing the dose and frequency of administration, combining them with potassium supplements.
Dichlorothiazide (Hypothiazide, Moduretic), cyclomethiazide, oxodoline (urandil) are taken as one of the main medications for edema due to congestion in the systemic and pulmonary circulation, hypertension, gestosis of pregnancy, nephritis and nephrosis, portal hypertension.
These diuretic tablets begin to act quite quickly: within a few hours after administration, you can expect the onset of their medicinal effect. You should not take thiazide diuretics every day, even with severe edema. There are several options for how to take thiazides correctly: 5-7 days and a 1-2-day break, 2-3 times weekly for a long course.
Thiazide-like diuretics, such as oxodoline (chlorthalidone), clopamide (brinaldix), indapamide and others, are largely similar in their properties to classical thiazides. They are more effective for edema of renal, cardiac and cirrhotic origin.
Both thiazide and thiazide-like diuretics should be taken in the morning to achieve maximum effect during the day rather than at night. A mandatory component of therapy with diuretics of this group is a combination with potassium supplements to prevent the negative consequences of hypokalemia.
The most commonly used loop diuretic is furosemide (Lasix). It has the property of inhibiting the reabsorption of sodium ions throughout the tubules, as well as the loop of Henle. The peculiarity of its action is its versatility (effective for edema of various origins) and the speed of onset of the effect (within a few minutes). Furosemide can be used even in chronic kidney failure, since there is no effect on glomerular filtration. It is most relevant in emergency cases, but does not lose its effectiveness if taken over long courses.
Ethacrynic acid (Uregit), unlike furosemide, does not have a significant effect on water-electrolyte balance. Ineffective for hypertension. It can be taken if other drugs are ineffective for edema of renal and cardiac origin. The initial effect is observed within an hour; with long courses, caution should be exercised due to hypokalemia. Other loop diuretics are less popular for edema of various etiologies: bufenox, xipamide, torsemide.
The most famous and effective is diacarb (acetazolamide). This drug affects the enzymatic processes in the renal tubules in such a way that the released volume of water increases significantly. Diacarb is effective for edema due to chronic pulmonary and heart failure, for liver cirrhosis, and in case of an acute attack of glaucoma. You should not drink Diacarb for a long time, as pronounced changes in the acid-base balance may be observed, however, after discontinuation of the drug, the changes quickly disappear without additional intervention.
These are quite effective medications that are the first choice in emergency situations. For example, Quincke's edema, cerebral edema-swelling, edema syndrome in acute poisoning can be cured with the help of this group of diuretics. The mechanism of action is to increase the osmotic pressure in the proximal tubules of the nephron and, accordingly, the reabsorption of water decreases. The list of osmotic diuretics includes mannitol, urea, potassium acetate. However, these drugs cannot be taken orally; they are intended for intravenous administration.
Ammonium chloride not only has a diuretic effect, but also, due to its acid-forming structure, effectively eliminates certain acid-base imbalances. Quite effective in emergency situations with edema of cardiogenic origin. Drinking ammonium chloride for a long time is not advisable, since over time its effectiveness decreases significantly and practically disappears by the 7th day.
The group of xanthines (theophylline, aminophylline) has a multidirectional effect, one of which is the elimination of vasospasm and increased fluid excretion. They act better than others in severe somatic pathology.
Combination diuretics are indicated in situations where treatment with a single diuretic is not effective or when the cause of edema is not fully known.