Synonyms in a broader sense
torasemide, diuretic, loop diuretic, furosemide
- Diuretics
- Furosemide
Introduction
The drug Torem® contains the active ingredient torasemide. This belongs to the group of diuretic drugs. The drug targets a specific ion transporter located in a specific section of the renal tubule system, the Henle loop (loop diuretic). The drug is mainly used to treat water retention in tissues (edema). As a “new loop diuretic”, the derivative (derivative) torasemide differs from the lead substance of the loop diuretics furosemide only in secondary properties such as dosage and active kinetics.
Mode of action
As a so-called loop diuretic, the point of attack of the active ingredient torasemide contained in Torem® is located in the kidney in a specialized transporter. This specialized transporter transports the ions sodium, potassium and chloride in the thick section of the ascending leg of the Henle loop of the tubule system against a gradient from the tubule lumen. These ions are followed by a water flow.
In this way, this primary urine is reduced from about 180 liters per day to 1.5 – 2 liters per day. This final urine is excreted. If the transporter is inhibited by torasemide, fewer water-attracting particles are transported out of the tubule lumen (osmolarity decreases) and thus water reabsorption is reduced. This results in an increased quantity during urination.
Pharmacokinetics and Bioavailability
In contrast to the lead substance furosemide, torasemide has a more stable bioavailability, which is particularly important in cases of cardiac insufficiency. If the bioavailability of furosemide varies greatly, it is relatively stable at over 80% for torasemide. The effect sets in relatively quickly, but lasts longer than with furosemide and allows more efficient urination (diuresis).
The substance is filtered from the bloodstream at the kidney filter into the primary urine and is also partially released actively into the tubular lumen by the cells of the tubular system. The substance can be administered as a tablet or infusion. After oral administration (as with furosemide) the onset of action is relatively fast (30 – 60 minutes).
The maximum effect is reached after 1 – 2 hours. Torasemide has a longer duration of action than furosemide (approx. 6 hours).
