These drugs are often used in combination to enhance their effectiveness. Some classes of drugs can treat several conditions. For example, beta blockers can be used to treat high blood pressure, angina, and irregular heart beats. Check with your doctor or pharmacist if you have questions on any of your medications. There are different types of diuretics.
Some diuretics cause loss of potassium, calcium, and magnesium.
Excess potassium may result in irregular heartbeat and heart palpitations. When taking triamterene, avoid eating large amounts of potassium-rich foods such as bananas, oranges and green leafy vegetables, or salt substitutes that contain potassium. Beta blockers decrease the nerve impulses to the heart and blood vessels. This decreases the heart rate and the work load of the heart. Avoid alcohol because it may add to the blood vessel-relaxing effect of nitrates and result in dangerously low blood pressure.