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Medications and their effects on serum potassium

  • NCLEX-RN
  • Physiological Adaptation
  • Drag and drop
  • Difficulty 2 of 5

Question

Place each medication in the group that describes the potassium problem it can cause.

Can cause hypokalemia

  • Furosemide
  • Torsemide
  • Bumetanide

Can cause hyperkalemia

  • Lisinopril
  • Spironolactone
  • Losartan

Answer

Can cause hypokalemia: Furosemide; Torsemide; Bumetanide · Can cause hyperkalemia: Lisinopril; Spironolactone; Losartan

Rationale

Loop diuretics such as furosemide, torsemide and bumetanide increase potassium loss in the urine, which can lead to hypokalemia. Spironolactone spares potassium, and ACE inhibitors and ARBs such as lisinopril and losartan reduce potassium excretion through their effects on the renin-angiotensin system. These drugs call for periodic potassium monitoring.

RememberLoop diuretics waste potassium; spironolactone, ACE inhibitors and ARBs hold it.

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