Diuretics

Abstract

This chapter is a comprehensive account of the medicinal chemistry of diuretic agents. It provides the mechanism of drug action and details the structure activity relationships (SAR) of these drugs to provide a knowledge base for pharmacists. After studying this chapter, students will be able to: • Identify the chemical classification to which a diuretic agent or therapeutic belongs based on drug structure. • Evaluate the chemical principles of different classes of diuretics. • Compare and contrast the potency, onset, and duration of action of the diuretic agents. • Identify chemical metabolites of the diuretics that increase the risk of nephron and hepatotoxicity. • Select an appropriate diuretic agent based on patient-specific symptoms of hypertension or other problems. • Rationalize the clinical application of all diuretic drug classes. • Communicate the chemical rationale for a diuretic to health professionals. • Delineate the clinical significance and therapeutic evaluations of these classes of drugs by solving case studies.• Identify the discovery process of selected diuretic agents.