Medication‑Induced Hyponatremia: What You Need to Know

When dealing with medication‑induced hyponatremia, a drop in blood sodium caused by certain drugs. Also known as drug‑related hyponatremia, it can sneak up on anyone who takes the wrong medication at the wrong dose. Medication‑induced hyponatremia encompasses an electrolyte imbalance that may lead to confusion, seizures, or even coma if not caught early.

Common culprits include Furosemide, a loop diuretic used to remove excess fluid, and thiazide diuretics, which are often prescribed for high blood pressure. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) for depression also tip the balance by increasing antidiuretic hormone activity. Even ACE inhibitors can contribute when combined with other water‑retaining drugs. The pattern is clear: many of these medicines affect how the kidneys handle water and sodium, so monitoring serum sodium becomes essential to prevent complications.

How the Body Reacts and What You Can Do

Medication‑induced hyponatremia requires a two‑step approach: identification and correction. First, look for symptoms like headache, nausea, or sudden weakness—these are warning signs that the brain is reacting to low sodium. Second, labs should confirm serum sodium below 135 mmol/L. Once confirmed, clinicians often pause the offending drug, adjust fluid intake, and may use hypertonic saline or vasopressin antagonists to raise sodium safely. Regular checks of electrolytes, especially in the first weeks after starting a new diuretic or antidepressant, create a safety net that catches the problem before it escalates.

Below you’ll find a curated set of articles that dive deeper into each drug class, share patient stories, and offer step‑by‑step management tips. Whether you’re a patient trying to understand why you feel dizzy after a new prescription or a caregiver looking for practical monitoring advice, this collection gives you the facts and tools you need to stay ahead of medication‑induced hyponatremia.