What adverse effect is associated with the use of a thiazide diuretic?

Thiazide diuretics are commonly used medications for the treatment of hypertension and edema. One of the well-known adverse effects associated with thiazide diuretics is hypokalemia, which refers to low potassium levels in the blood. Thiazide diuretics work by inhibiting sodium reabsorption in the distal convoluted tubule of the nephron. This mechanism also leads to increased excretion of potassium.

As potassium is excreted alongside sodium, patients taking thiazide diuretics can experience a significant decrease in serum potassium levels, which can lead to various symptoms such as muscle weakness, cramps, and irregular heart rhythms. Monitoring potassium levels is crucial for patients on these medications to ensure they remain within a safe range.

While the other choices highlight important conditions related to renal and metabolic health, they do not align with the primary risk associated with thiazide diuretics like hypokalemia does. For instance, thiazide diuretics can sometimes cause hyperglycemia as a secondary effect in susceptible individuals, but this is not their primary adverse effect.