Over the Counter Diuretics for Edema

Diuretics are substances that help to get rid of water retention in the body through urination. These can be taken in the form of over-the-counter diuretics, homeopathic, and herbal remedies. 

There are also certain foods that have diuretic qualities that promote urine formation. Whatever the source, diuretics help to prevent fluid retention (edema). 

In this article, we will discuss over-the-counter diuretics, and how beneficial they are for edema treatment. 

How Do Over The Counter Diuretics for Edema Work?

Diuretics work by making the kidneys expel more sodium in the urine. The body then creates a balance for this increased amount of sodium by adding more fluid to the urine from the blood stream, during the process of urine formation. 

Over-the-counter diuretics containing caffeine (Diurex) are used to alleviate symptoms related to edema or water retention. More severe edematous conditions may require medical attention. 

Treatment of edema with prescription medications is limited to the use of diuretics, commonly referred to as “water pills.” 

Agents often used include: the thiazide diuretics, such as hydrochlorothiazide and metolazone; loop diuretics; and potassium-sparing diuretics. 

Over the counter diuretics like pamabrom (Aquaban) can help ease water retention caused by premenstrual syndrome (PMS). 

Over The Counter Diuretics for Edema - Are They Safe?

Over-the-counter diuretics are considered to be quite safe. They can be homeopathic remedies, foods, pills, herbs, teas, etc. The diuretics are safe when taken in recommended doses, under the guidance of a physician. 

Overdose can lead to side effects such as skin rashes, sleeping disorders, iron deficiency, etc. Sometimes, these diuretics may interfere with routine medications and create health problems. 

Similarly, removal of excess water may reduce the essential vitamins and minerals from the body, resulting in a nutrient shortage. 

Over-the-counter diuretics should not be administered to small children or to women who are pregnant or breastfeeding. Though they are not toxic, they may interact with some medications. 

Thus, it is always safe to consult your health care provider before opting for over the counter diuretics. 

Are They Useful: 

Over the counter diuretics are taken to prevent or treat water retention or edema. They are known to increase the production of urine by releasing accumulated fluid in the body. 

Diuretics also help to get rid of body toxins, and so they play an important role in detoxification. 

Cranberries and cranberry juice, coffee, tea, and other substances which contain caffeine and apple cider vinegar are commonly available and widely used diuretics. 

If you are worried about the safety of over the counter diuretics, then be assured that the natural diuretics are quite safe if used in moderation. 

For more information regarding edema and its treatment methods, read these articles: Edema Diet: Foods to Avoid, Edema and Exercise, and Edema Products.