Pharmacology · single question
A patient takes a combination of triamterene and hydrochlorothiazide (HCTZ). What does this specific drug combination help prevent?
Show answer and explanation
Correct answer: A. Hypokalemia (triamterene, a potassium-sparing diuretic, counteracts the potassium loss caused by HCTZ, a thiazide diuretic)
Hydrochlorothiazide (a thiazide diuretic) promotes renal potassium loss, risking hypokalemia. Triamterene, a potassium-sparing diuretic, is combined with it specifically to counteract this effect and help maintain normal serum potassium levels — this fixed combination is marketed under brand names such as Dyazide/Maxzide.