potassium gluconate
Indication
This is a potassium supplement useful in those prone to low blood potassium.
Side effects
Numbness and tingling of the extremities, confusion, weakness, arrhythmias, ECG changes, nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, abdominal pain, GI ulcerations, GI bleeding, intestinal obstruction, and intestinal perforation.
Interactions and precautions
1. Should not be used in cases of severe kidney disease, acute dehydration, or those who are using potassium sparing diuretics (e.g. spironolactone, triamterene).
2. Enteric coated potassium tablets cannot be recommended due to increased risk of GI bleeding and ulceration.
3. Minimise GI symptoms by taking this medication with food.
Usual dose
Adult and adolescent: oral, elixir, 10-20 mEq of potassium diluted in one-half glass of cold water or juice, two to four times a day; or 5-10 mEq potassium in tablet form, two to four times a day; dosage adjusted to need (up to 100 mEq potassium per day). Paediatrics: individualized per physician. Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome
In PCOS, under-developed follicles accumulate in the ovaries. Since they fail to mature, they accumulate as cysts in the ovaries. The low levels of follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) and elevated levels of androgens may be the reasons for this condition. When there is no ovulation, the progesterone hormone is not created and the lining of the uterus is not shed in a timely fashion. This increases the chances of endometrial hyperplasia and even cancer.
Another feature associated with PCOS is hyper androgenism or increased responsiveness to testosterone. This usually shows up in oily skin and acne. Excess hair may be noticed on the face and other parts of the body. Women suffering from PCOS have a weight problem, especially around the waist. Insulin resistance is also noticed in some women. This increases the risk of developing diabetes in later years.
Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome Symptom
- Absence of menses or abnormal or scanty menstrual periods
- Weight gain
- Infertility
- Aggravated acne
- Increased hair growth in a male pattern
High levels of insulin can result in symptoms such as high androgen levels, infertility and lack of ovulation. These symptoms are usually noticed when women are in their 20s or 30s. Diagnosis of PCOS is after a physical examination and laboratory tests. Thyroid and prolactin levels in the blood are tested. Serum levels of male hormones (DHEA and testosterone) are tested for higher than normal levels. Tumors in the ovary or adrenal glands can be diagnosed with vaginal and abdominal ultrasounds. Insulin resistance is vital in the diagnosis of PCOS. Insulin is instrumental in regulating the ovarian function. An ovarian biopsy may also be done.
Treatment for Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome
Treatment for women with Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome depends on what stage of a woman's life this condition has manifested and her fertility desires. Birth control pills are prescribed to regularize the menstrual cycle and reduce the risk of uterine cancer. Other medications used in the treatment of PCOS are flutamide and spironolactone.
Clomiphene induces the pituitary gland to secrete more FSH and this stimulates release and maturity of ova. Insulin resistance is reduced with drugs such as Metformin (Glucophage) and Troglitazone. 'Ovarian drilling' is a process of using laser to place small holes in the ovaries so as to normalize the hormonal environment and allow normal ovulation. Diuretics
Also called as Water Pills as this group of drugs lower the blood pressure by excreting excess water and sodium. Originally Diuretics enhance the rate of urine excretion - diuresis. These drugs are prescribed for the treatment of hypertension, (High blood pressure), Congestive Heart Failure (CHF) and Edema, a condition in which excess fluid is accumulated in the body tissues.
Even caffeine, alcohol and some fruit extracts and juices like that of cranberry juice have mild diuretic effect.
Types of Diuretics
Loop type diuretics:
- Furosemide
- brand name Lasix
- Bumetanide
- brand name Bumex
- Torsemide
- brand name Demadex
- Ethacrynic acid
- brand name Edecrin
Potassium retaining Diuretics:
- Spironolactone
- brand name Aldactone
- Triamterene
- brand name Dyrenium
- Amiloride
- brand name Midamor
Thiazide Diuretics:
- Methyclothiazide
- brand name Aquatensen
- hydroflumethiazide
- brand name Diucardin
- Chlorothiazide
- brand name Diuril
- Hydrochlorothiazide
- brand name Hydro chlor
Sometimes a combination of the diuretics like hydrochlorothiazide and triamterene is also prescribed.
Bibliography / Reference
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