How Does Triamterene Work?
Triamterene is a diuretic, which is commonly referred to as a "water pill." While most diuretics can cause low levels of potassium in the blood, triamterene is a "potassium-sparing" diuretic, meaning that it can actually increase potassium levels in the blood.
The medication works by increasing the amount of salt and water the kidneys remove from the blood. This extra salt and water is thenpassed out through the urine. By increasing the amount of water removed from the blood, triamterene causes a decrease in blood volume. As a result, the drug can help with water retention.
Is Triamterene Used for Children?
Triamterene has not been adequately studied in children or adolescents and is not approved for these age groups. Talk to your child's healthcare provider about the benefits and risks of using the drug in children.
Is Triamterene Used for Off-Label Reasons?
On occasion, your healthcare provider may recommend triamterene for treating a condition other than fluid retention. This is called an "
off-label" use. At this time, off-label uses of triamterene include the treatment of:
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