What electrolyte disturbance is commonly associated with thiazide diuretics?

Thiazide diuretics are known to commonly cause hypomagnesemia as an electrolyte disturbance. They work by inhibiting sodium reabsorption in the distal convoluted tubule of the nephron, which can lead to increased excretion of magnesium in the urine. This increased loss can result in low levels of magnesium in the blood, termed hypomagnesemia.

Additionally, thiazide diuretics can also cause other electrolyte imbalances, such as hypokalemia (low potassium) and hypercalcemia (high calcium), but the most significant and characteristic disturbance is the decrease in magnesium levels. Understanding the implications of thiazide use, particularly regarding magnesium levels, is important as it can lead to symptoms such as muscle cramps, weakness, and cardiac disturbances if it becomes severe. This highlights the need for regular monitoring of magnesium levels in patients on thiazide therapy.