Diuretics, Serum and Intracellular Electrolyte Levels, and Ventricular Arrhythmias in Hypertensive Men

Abstract

In the majority of hypertensive patients, treatment with 50 mg/d of hydrochlorothiazide does not cause marked hypokalemia or ventricular arrhythmias. However, because some individuals will develop hypokalemia after starting diuretic therapy, serum potassium levels should be monitored and potassium-sparing strategies should be used when indicated.