Dr Sudhir Kumar Cautions About Hidden Dangers in Common Medicines

Dr Sudhir Kumar, senior neurologist at Apollo Hospitals, Hyderabad, has warned that several commonly used medications can cause a dangerous drop in blood sodium levels, a condition known as hyponatremia. This imbalance can lead to fatigue, dizziness, confusion, muscle weakness, and in extreme cases, seizures or coma. According to Dr Sudhir Kumar, the three major culprits are thiazide diuretics, SSRIs, and carbamazepine/oxcarbazepine, which are frequently prescribed for blood pressure, mental health, and neurological conditions.

Dr Sudhir Kumar Identifies Thiazide Diuretics as a Major Trigger

Dr Sudhir Kumar explained that thiazide diuretics, such as hydrochlorothiazide and indapamide commonly given for high blood pressure can lead to excessive sodium loss through urine. The risk is especially high among elderly patients who are more sensitive to sodium fluctuations. Prolonged use without medical supervision may cause fatigue, confusion, or seizures when sodium levels fall below safe limits. Regular blood tests and medical monitoring are essential for those using these medications.

Dr Sudhir Kumar Highlights Risks of SSRIs and Antiseizure Drugs

The neurologist further cautioned that Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs) like sertraline and escitalopram, used to treat depression and anxiety, can also disturb sodium balance. These drugs increase the release of antidiuretic hormone (ADH), which retains excess water in the body and dilutes sodium concentration. Dr Sudhir Kumar noted that this side effect is more pronounced in older adults or those taking other diuretics.

He also mentioned carbamazepine and oxcarbazepine, prescribed for epilepsy and mood disorders, as another major cause of low sodium. These drugs can trigger SIADH (Syndrome of Inappropriate Antidiuretic Hormone secretion), a condition that leads to chronic hyponatremia if not addressed promptly.

Dr Sudhir Kumar Explains Symptoms and Prevention of Hyponatremia

According to Dr Sudhir Kumar, symptoms of low sodium often begin subtly with nausea, headache, and fatigue, but can quickly escalate to muscle cramps, confusion, seizures, and even coma. He stressed the importance of awareness, especially for patients already on multiple medications. Anyone experiencing sudden dizziness, weakness, or unusual tiredness while on these drugs should get their blood sodium checked immediately.

He advised that treatment depends on identifying and addressing the root cause, either by adjusting the medication, limiting water intake, or using intravenous saline under medical supervision. Regular check-ups and following dosage guidelines are vital steps to prevent severe complications. Also Read: Dr. Rajagopalan’s Revolutionary Idea That Changed India’s Roads Forever in 2025

Dr Sudhir Kumar’s Final Word on Patient Safety

In his message, He urged both patients and doctors to treat sodium monitoring as a routine part of long-term medication use. Many cases of hyponatremia, he noted, go unnoticed until they become critical. By staying alert to early warning signs and conducting regular medical reviews, individuals can avoid serious health consequences.

Three Commonly used Medications that can cause Hyponatremia (low blood sodium level) https://t.co/EwRh1mcfxA

— Dr Sudhir Kumar MD DM (@hyderabaddoctor) October 25, 2025

Conclusion: Dr Sudhir Kumar’s warning serves as an important reminder that even common medicines can have serious side effects if not monitored properly. Awareness, timely medical consultation, and regular health checks are key to ensuring safety while managing chronic conditions.