Loop Diuretics: Pharmacology Made Easy & Clinically Relevant

In this This Is Why with Dr. Busti pharmacology, Dr. Busti makes this pharmacology 101 review of loop diuretics easy by breaking down the science and clinical application of diuretic pharmacology —a cornerstone drug class for fluid overload, heart failure management, and edema treatment. Drawing on Dr. Busti's 30 years of experience as a nurse, pharmacist, physician, and educator, he explains renal pharmacology and the mechanism of action at the loop of Henle, their pharmacokinetic differences, and why understanding their mechanisms helps prevent common pitfalls such as side effects of diuretics (e.g., electrolyte disturbances), diuretic resistance, and hemodynamic instability.

This session translates complex renal physiology into clear, clinically relevant knowledge—connecting the why behind loop diuretics’ powerful therapeutic effects and potential risks in both inpatient and outpatient care. The goals = pharmacology made relevant & pharmacology made easy.

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Chapter Table of Contents
00:00:00 – Intro & Why Loop Diuretics Matter
00:04:29 – Drug Lineup: Furosemide, Bumetanide, Torsemide (+ Ethacrynic Acid)
00:05:03 – Indications: Edema, Heart Failure, Fluid Overload
00:10:19 – Mechanism of action: Rapid Diuresis
00:13:08 – Renal Pharmacology: Getting Drug to Site of Action
00:14:56 – Nephron Tour → Thick Ascending Limb Focus
00:39:22 – PK & Dosing: PO vs IV, Potency, Ceiling Doses, Conversions of Loop Diuretics
00:54:15 – Electrolytes: K⁺/Mg²⁺/Ca²⁺ Loss, QT Risk, Contraction Alkalosis
00:59:09 – Side Effects of Diuretics & Drug Interactions: Ototoxicity, NSAIDs, Digoxin, Lithium
01:05:33 – Monitoring: Vitals, Daily Weights, BMP/CMP, Renal Function

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#loopdiuretics #furosemide #pharmacology #pharmacologymadeeasy #nursingpharmacology

Disclaimer: This content is for educational purposes only and is not intended to provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have heard in this content.