Why Do Patients Taking Loop Diuretics Need to Take Supplemental

Question

Why do patients taking loop diuretics need to take supplemental potassium?
A) They cause active secretion of potassium in the loop of Henle.
B) They inhibit the reabsorption of potassium as well as sodium in the loop of Henle.
C) They inhibit intestinal absorption of potassium.
D) They cause active reabsorption of potassium in the distal convoluted tubule.

Accepted Answer

Loop diuretics inhibit the reabsorption of both sodium and potassium in the loop of Henle, leading to increased excretion of both electrolytes. This can result in hypokalemia (low potassium levels), which may require supplementation.