Effect of Combination ACEI (Angiotensin Converting Enzyme Inhibitor) and Diuretics on Potassium Levels of Congestive Heart Failure Patients

Abstract

ACEI (Angiotensin Converting Enzyme Inhibitors) and diuretics are now the treatment options for heart failure patients. However, the use of ACEI and diuretics can cause potassium balance disorders. This study aimed to evaluate the use of ACEI and diuretics combinations on potassium levels in patients with congestive heart failure. This study used analytical research and sampling, done in total sampling. Samples were divided into 2 groups, group with combination of ACEI, furosemide and spironolactone along with combination group of ACEI and furosemide. Total samples obtained were 38 patients. The results showed that the averaged potassium levels in combinations of ACEI, furosemide and spironolactone before treatment were 3.95mmol/L and after treatment were 3.85 mmol/L (p = 0.061), the averaged potassium levels before receiving therapy were 4.20 mmol/L and after receiving 4.14 mmol/L therapy (p = 0.070) in combinations of ACEI and furosemide. In combinations of ACEI, furosemide and spironolactone, of a total of 25 patients, hypokalemia was found in 6 patients (24%), normal in 19 patients (76%) and 0 patient had hyperkalemia (0%), while combinations of ACEI and furosemide, of a total of 13 patients, all patients have normal potassium levels. So it can be concluded that there were no significant changes between potassium levels before and after receiving therapy of ACEI and diuretics combination.