Dr Kola Tytler MBBS CertHE MBA MRCGPClinical Lead • iatroX
In general practice, you should be aware that certain medications are commonly associated with the development of hyponatraemia, which can include cases of Syndrome of Inappropriate Antidiuretic Hormone Secretion (SIADH) NICE CKS. Medications that may cause or provoke hyponatraemia should be stopped where practical NICE CKS.
Specific classes of medications to be aware of include:
- Thiazide diuretics: These are explicitly mentioned as medications that may cause hyponatraemia NICE CKS.
- Antipsychotics: These medications may contribute to hyponatraemia NICE CKS. If an antipsychotic cannot be stopped, specialist discussion is recommended regarding monitoring or referral NICE CKS.
- Antidepressants: When prescribing antidepressant medication for older people, there is an increased risk of hyponatraemia, particularly if there are other risk factors such as concomitant use of diuretics NICE NG222.
- Diuretics (general): Beyond thiazides, diuretics are broadly mentioned in the context of increasing the risk of hyponatraemia, especially when used with other medications like antidepressants or lithium NICE CKS,NICE NG222.