[Guest]

can use of triamterene cause kidney stones?

[Guest]

Triamterene is a potassium sparing diuretic which is usually added to other diuretic medications to help prevent the loss of potassium that occurs with most standard diuretic use. Unfortunately, triamterene occasionally forms stones made of the drug. Therefore, as a general rule, we don't recommend the use of triamterene in patients with a history of stones, especially when there is another potassiium sparing compound called amiloride that does not form stones and also preserves potassium. The most common form or amiloride is in a brand name diuretic called Moduretic. Another substitute would be a potassium supplement like potassium citrate to replace any lost potassium.

Stephen W. Leslie, MD

Assistant Clinical Professor
Dept. of Urology
Medical College of Ohio
Founder and Medical Director
Lorain Kidney Stone Research Center
Lorain, Ohio