What is a potential risk when a client taking triamterene also uses potassium supplements?

When a client taking triamterene also uses potassium supplements, there is a potential risk of hyperkalemia, which is an elevated level of potassium in the blood. Triamterene is a potassium-sparing diuretic that works by inhibiting sodium reabsorption in the distal convoluted tubule of the kidneys while promoting potassium retention. When combined with additional potassium intake from supplements, the risk of hyperkalemia increases significantly because the combination can lead to excessive accumulation of potassium in the bloodstream.

Hyperkalemia can be dangerous and lead to serious health issues such as cardiac arrhythmias, muscle weakness, and in severe cases, can be life-threatening. Therefore, it is essential for healthcare providers to monitor potassium levels in patients taking triamterene and to advise against the use of potassium supplements unless specifically directed by a healthcare professional.