Drug Information
Triamterene is a potassium-sparing diuretic (in other words, it inhibits the urinary excretion of potassium). Diuretics increase urinary water loss from the body and are used to treat high blood pressure, congestive heart failure, and some kidney or liver conditions. Triamterene is available as a single agent and in combination products.
Common brand names:
DyreniumSummary of Interactions with Vitamins, Herbs, & Foods
Types of interactions:BeneficialAdverseCheck
Replenish Depleted Nutrients
- Folic Acid
Triamterene is a weak folic acid antagonist that has been associated with folic acid-deficiency anemia in people already at risk for folic acid deficiency. However, people treated long term with triamterene, without additional risk for folic acid deficiency, were found to have normal folic acid levels and no signs of folic acid deficiency. The use of multivitamin supplements containing folic acid appears to diminish the occurrence of birth defects associated with triamterene. According to one study,pregnant women who took folic acid–containing multivitamin supplements in addition to their prescription drugs had fewer babies with heart defects and deformities of the upper lip and mouth.
One study showed that people taking diuretics for more than six months had dramatically lower blood levels of folic acid and higher levels of homocysteine compared with individuals not taking diuretics. Homocysteine, a toxic amino acid byproduct, has been associated with atherosclerosis. Until further information is available, people taking diuretics for longer than six months should probably supplement with folic acid.
- Calcium
A review of the research literature indicates that triamterene may increase calcium loss. The importance of this information is unclear.
The interaction is supported by preliminary, weak, fragmentary, and/or contradictory scientific evidence.
Potential Negative Interaction
- Dandelion
Herbs that have a diuretic effect should be avoided when taking diuretic medications, as they may increase the effect of these drugs and lead to possible cardiovascular side effects. These herbs include
dandelion,
uva ursi,
juniper,
buchu,
cleavers,
horsetail, and gravel root.
Herbs that have a diuretic effect should be avoided when taking diuretic medications, as they may enhance the effect of these drugs and lead to possible cardiovascular side effects. These herbs include dandelion, uva ursi, juniper, buchu, cleavers, horsetail, and gravel root.
Use buckthorn (Rhamnus catartica, Rhamnus frangula, Frangula alnus) or alder buckthorn for more than ten days consecutively may cause a loss of electrolytes (especially the mineral potassium). Medications that also cause potassium loss, such as some diuretics, should be used with caution when taking buckthorn or alder buckthorn.
- Magnesium
Preliminary research in animals suggests that triamterene may inhibit the urinary excretion of magnesium. It is unknown if this same effect would occur in humans. Persons taking more than 300 mg of magnesium per day and triamterene should consult with a doctor as this combination may lead to potentially dangerous increases in the level of magnesium in the body. The combination of triamterene and hydrochlorothiazide would likely eliminate this problem, as hydrochlorothiazide may deplete magnesium.
- Potassium
As a potassium-sparing drug, triamterene reduces urinary loss of potassium, which can lead to elevated potassium levels. People taking triamterene should avoid potassium supplements, potassium-containing salt substitutes (Morton Salt Substitute, No Salt, Lite Salt, and others) and even high-potassium foods (primarily fruit). Doctors should monitor potassium blood levels in patients taking triamterene to prevent problems associated with elevated potassium levels.
However, some medications (for example, Dyazide, Maxzide) contain the combination of the potassium-sparing drug triamterene and the potassium-depleting drug hydrochlorothiazide. With the use of these combination medications, potassium excess and potassium depletion are both possible. People taking these drugs should have their potassium levels monitored by a doctor to determine whether their potassium intake should be increased, reduced, or kept the same.
Explanation Required
Diuretics, including triamterene, cause increased loss of sodium in the urine. By removing sodium from the body, diuretics also cause water to leave the body. This reduction of body water is the purpose of taking diuretics. Therefore, there is usually no reason to replace lost sodium, although strict limitation of salt intake in combination with the actions of diuretics can sometimes cause excessive sodium depletion. On the other hand, people who restrict sodium intake and in the process reduce blood pressure may need to have their dose of diuretics lowered. People taking triamterene should talk with their prescribing doctor before severely restricting salt.
The Drug-Nutrient Interactions table may not include every possible interaction. Taking medicines with meals, on an empty stomach, or with alcohol may influence their effects. For details, refer to the manufacturers’ package information as these are not covered in this table. If you take medications, always discuss the potential risks and benefits of adding a new supplement with your doctor or pharmacist.
