What is the mechanism of action for diuretics in the body?

Diuretics primarily work by blocking sodium reuptake in the nephron, which is the functional unit of the kidney. This mechanism leads to increased excretion of sodium, and consequently, water follows sodium into the urine as an osmotic response. This results in an increase in urine output (diuresis) and helps to reduce blood volume and pressure.

Different classes of diuretics target specific parts of the nephron. For example, thiazide diuretics primarily act on the distal convoluted tubule, while loop diuretics act on the ascending loop of Henle. By inhibiting sodium reabsorption at these sites, diuretics effectively manage conditions such as hypertension, edema, and heart failure, among others. Their mechanism of action is crucial to their therapeutic use in promoting fluid balance and reducing the workload on the heart.