Diuretics are drugs that act on the kidneys to increase urination. They are prescribed to treat a number of common medical conditions including high blood pressure.
Diuretics cause the kidneys to excrete a larger amount of water, salts, and poisons than they normally would. Increased urination rids the body of excess fluid that collects in the body as a result of conditions such as congestive heart failure and liver disease. Diuretics are also used to treat high blood pressure. They reduce the amount of fluid in the bloodstream, which lowers blood pressure. Diuretics can also aid in the prevention of kidney stones because they reduce the amount of calcium excreted in the urine. Since most kidney stones are formed chiefly of calcium, diuretics can lower the risk of kidney stones developing.