What Did the Research Discover?
Researchers in Denmark studied whether thiazide diuretics, a common type of blood pressure medication, increase the risk of low sodium levels (hyponatremia). They analyzed medical records from 2014 to 2018, looking at over 180,000 people who started different blood pressure treatments.
The study found that people who took thiazide diuretics had a higher chance of developing low sodium levels compared to those on other blood pressure medications. The risk was highest in the first month after starting treatment and was even greater for older adults and people with other health conditions. While the risk decreased over time, it remained slightly higher even after a year.
Having low sodium levels can lead to serious health problems, including confusion, weakness, nausea, and in severe cases, seizures.
How Can I Apply This Information?
This study suggests that thiazide diuretics may cause low sodium levels more often than previously thought. If you are prescribed this type of medication, your doctor may need to monitor your sodium levels with blood tests, especially in the first few months of treatment.
If you start experiencing symptoms like dizziness, fatigue, muscle cramps, or trouble concentrating, it could be a sign of low sodium. Contact your doctor immediately if you notice these changes.
For some people, alternative blood pressure medications may be a safer option, especially if they are at higher risk of low sodium. If thiazide diuretics are necessary, your doctor may recommend checking your electrolytes regularly or adjusting your dose to reduce the risk.
Understanding the possible side effects of your medication can help you stay safe and make informed decisions about your health. If you have concerns, talk to your doctor about the best treatment plan for you.
Source:
Andersson NW, Wohlfahrt J, Feenstra B, Hviid A, Melbye M, Lund M. Cumulative incidence of thiazide-induced hyponatremia: a population-based cohort study. Annals of Internal Medicine. 2024 Jan;177(1):1-1. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38109740/
