Medication side effects: Barriers to the management of fluid intake

Abstract

Managing fluid intake can be complicated and stressful for hemodialysis patients. It is known that excessive interdialytic weight gain greatly increases the risk of cardiovascular complications and death. Research has tried to identify individual characteristics and motives to explain why certain patients fail to adhere to their fluid restrictions. In addition to intrinsic causes, external barriers also may impede compliance. Numerous medications frequently prescribed to the hemodialysis population are known to have negative side effects, such as dry mouth, vomiting, diarrhea, and constipation. Homeostasis can be difficult to achieve when a patient has to constantly deal with these symptoms. This article reviews medications commonly used in hemodialysis and the side effects they have that may affect fluid management.