What is a common side effect of diuretics that can affect patient compliance?

Increased urination is indeed a common side effect of diuretics and can significantly impact patient compliance with the treatment regimen. Diuretics function by promoting the excretion of sodium and water from the body, leading to an increase in urinary output. This can be inconvenient for patients, as it may lead to frequent trips to the bathroom, especially if they need to take the medication multiple times a day.

Patients might find the need to urinate more often disruptive to their daily activities, affecting their willingness to continue the medication. This side effect is particularly important for older adults or those with mobility issues, as they may face additional challenges managing frequent urination. Therefore, understanding the implications of increased urination can help healthcare providers better inform their patients about what to expect and potentially improve adherence to diuretic therapy.