SummaryThe introduction of new diuretics : furosemide, ethacrynic acid, triamterene and amiloride hydrochloride (a new potassium-sparing diuretic) has modified the frequence of complications during the treatment of edema. Diabetogenic effect remains one of the most important. Its pathogeny is not well understood : insulin hyposecretion, peripheral metabolic effects, etc.Hyponatremia and hypovolemia sometimes follow excessive diuresis and can produce renal or vascular complications.Since Triamteren an Amiloride are in use, paradoxical hyperkaliemia has become a not unfrequent complication of diuretic treatment.