@article {10.3844/ajptsp.2009.174.176, article_type = {journal}, title = {The "Forgotten Side Effect" of Thiazides}, author = {Blum, Arnon}, volume = {4}, year = {2009}, month = {Dec}, pages = {174-176}, doi = {10.3844/ajptsp.2009.174.176}, url = {https://thescipub.com/abstract/ajptsp.2009.174.176}, abstract = {Problem statement: Thiazide diuretics are derived from benzodiazines. They inhibit Na+/Cl- re-absorption from the distal convoluted tubules in the kidneys by blocking the thiazide-sensitive Na+/Cl- symporter. They are recommended as first line treatment for hypertension in the US (JNC VII)[1] guidelines and in the National Institute of Health and Clinical Excellence/British Hypertension Society guidelines[2] and in the European (ESC/ESH)[3] guidelines. They have been shown to prevent hypertension-related morbidity and mortality, although the long term mechanism is not fully understood. Approach: Side effects include hypokalemia, increased serum cholesterol, impaired glucose intolerance, diabetes mellitus and impotence. Long term usage of thiazides is also linked to increased levels of homocysteine and a paradoxical effect in Diabetes Insipidus, where they reduce urine volume. However, there is a side effect that was ignored during the last 30 years-and that is the association with gall bladder disease. We would like to stress this side effect. Results: Thiazide diuretics have a “forgotten” side effect that was not mentioned among the well-known side effects of the drug. Conclusion: The mechanism is not completely understood, but the association is clear and physicians should be aware of that side effect.}, journal = {American Journal of Pharmacology and Toxicology}, publisher = {Science Publications} }