Which medication is associated with potassium loss?

Furosemide, commonly known as Lasix, is a loop diuretic that is associated with the loss of potassium. This medication works by inhibiting the sodium-potassium-chloride cotransporter in the ascending loop of Henle in the kidneys, leading to increased excretion of sodium, chloride, and water. As a consequence of its action on the kidneys, it also results in significant potassium loss, which can lead to hypokalemia if potassium levels are not monitored or supplemented.

Loop diuretics like furosemide are often utilized in the management of conditions such as heart failure and edema, but they require careful monitoring of electrolytes, particularly potassium, because of this potassium-wasting effect. In contrast, medications such as spironolactone are actually potassium-sparing diuretics, meaning they help retain potassium in the body. Enalapril, an ACE inhibitor, and metoprolol, a beta-blocker, do not typically lead to potassium loss and may even have neutral or beneficial effects on potassium levels under certain conditions.