Is powerade or gatorade okay to drink for people with liver cirrhosis and taking water pills ?

Question

Water pills are lasix and spironolactone.

Answer 1

I would say No the amount of sodium in these drinks may add to the problem for which you are taking the lasix and spironolactone. Compare the number milligrams of sodium and potassium on the label.

Old Doc

Answer 2

Yes, they are fine to drink, as long as your kidneys and water balance in the body are otherwise okay. The problem with such "sports" drinks is that they often are hyperosmotic, in that they draw water from your body, because they contain a lot of sugar (and salts). If you're not overly dehydrated from your meds or are diabetic, they are fine.

To be honest, the best thing for your body, no matter what meds you're taking, is water. Your body is very good at controlling salt and water balance on its own. The only time a sports drink may be particularly beneficial is if you're physically active/playing a sport. You want to avoid those kinds of drinks if you have diarrhea or are vomiting a lot.