Which electrolyte imbalance is a common side effect of loop diuretics like bumetanide?

Loop diuretics, such as bumetanide, are known to promote the excretion of sodium, chloride, and water through the renal system. One significant effect of this increased excretion is the loss of potassium, which often leads to hypokalemia.

When loop diuretics act on the ascending limb of the loop of Henle in the kidney, they inhibit sodium and chloride reabsorption. This disruption in electrolyte balance makes it more difficult for the body to retain potassium, resulting in lower serum potassium levels. Hypokalemia can lead to various symptoms, including muscle weakness, fatigue, and irregular heart rhythms, which are direct consequences of the decreased potassium availability.

In contrast, the other options pertain to different electrolyte imbalances. While hypomagnesemia can occur in patients on diuretics, it is less common compared to hypokalemia. Hyperkalemia, which refers to elevated potassium levels, is typically not expected with loop diuretics because these medications lead to potassium loss, not retention. Lastly, hypophosphatemia is more associated with total parenteral nutrition or disorders affecting phosphate metabolism and is not a primary concern related to loop diuretic use.

Thus, hypokalemia is indeed a common and