AEMCA Practice Exam

What is a common loop diuretic used in medical practice?

1. Spironolactone

2. Bendroflumethiazide

3. Furosemide

4. Mannitol

The correct answer is: Furosemide

Furosemide is a common loop diuretic used in medical practice due to its effectiveness in promoting the excretion of sodium, chloride, and water from the body. It works by inhibiting the sodium-potassium-chloride cotransporter in the thick ascending limb of the loop of Henle in the kidneys, which significantly increases urine output. This makes it particularly useful in managing conditions such as heart failure, hypertension, and edema resulting from various medical conditions. The other options represent different classes of diuretics. Spironolactone is a potassium-sparing diuretic that acts on the distal parts of the nephron and is typically used for conditions where potassium retention is desired, such as in heart failure or hypertension. Bendroflumethiazide falls under the thiazide diuretics, which act on the distal convoluted tubule and have a different mechanism of action and indications. Mannitol is an osmotic diuretic primarily used to reduce intracranial pressure or promote the excretion of toxins and is not classified as a loop diuretic. Thus, the distinct action and broad utility of furosemide in various clinical scenarios qualify it as a common choice among loop diuretics.