Side effects

Diuretics are generally safe. Side effects include increased urination and sodium loss.

Diuretics can also affect blood potassium levels. If you take a thiazide diuretic, your potassium level can drop too low (hypokalemia), which can cause life-threatening problems with your heartbeat. If you're on a potassium-sparing diuretic, you can have too much potassium in your blood.

Other possible side effects of diuretics include:

• Dizziness
• Headaches
• Dehydration
• Muscle cramps
• Joint disorders (gout)
• Impotence