Which of the following classes does hydrochlorothiazide belong to?

Hydrochlorothiazide belongs to the class of thiazide diuretics. This class of medications is primarily used to treat hypertension and edema by promoting the excretion of sodium and water through the kidneys, which helps reduce blood volume and lower blood pressure. Thiazide diuretics work specifically on the distal convoluted tubule of the nephron, leading to an increase in urine output.

While hydrochlorothiazide is indeed used as an antihypertensive agent—contributing to lowering blood pressure—classifying it specifically as a thiazide diuretic is more accurate. The other classes listed do not correctly identify the mechanism or primary use of hydrochlorothiazide. For instance, loop diuretics act on the loop of Henle and are used in different clinical situations, while potassium-sparing diuretics function primarily to conserve potassium. Understanding these distinctions is crucial for recognizing how different diuretics function and are applied in patient care.