Effects of amiloride on oral glucose loading, serum potassium, renin, and aldosterone in diet-controlled diabetes.

The effects of amiloride on oral glucose loading, serum potassium, renin, and aldosterone were evaluated in 10 patients with diet-controlled diabetes. Eight had mild hypertension, and 2 had normal blood pressure. Prior to receiving amiloride all were studied for renin and aldosterone responses while supine and after 2 hr ambulation. All had a normal response to change in position in the renin and aldosterone systems. Before administration of amiloride glucose tolerance tests were carried out, with simultaneous determinations for potassium and insulin. Amiloride 5 to 10 mg was given orally for 6 wk. Blood glucose and serum potassium levels were monitored weekly. After 6 wk renin and aldosterone responses were again determined, as were oral glucose tolerance and serum potassium and serum insulin levels. Amiloride did not induce hyperkalemia in these diabetic patients and did not alter the postamiloride relationship. It is concluded that amiloride is safe for patients with an intact renin aldosterone system, more especially those with normal renal function and diet-controlled diabetes mellitus.