Final answer:
Diuretics are drugs that enhance urinary output and are used to treat high blood pressure by inhibiting the reabsorption of sodium and chloride in the kidneys, which leads to increased urine volume and reduced blood pressure.
Step-by-step explanation:
The chemicals or drugs that enhance urinary output and are frequently used as hypotensive drugs to lower blood pressure are known as diuretics. Diuretics work by affecting various parts of the kidney's nephron, with some acting on the loop of Henle to inhibit the reabsorption of sodium (Na+) and chloride (Cl-). This action leads to an increase in urine volume and a consequent reduction in blood volume, which can help to lower blood pressure. For example, hydrochlorothiazide, a commonly prescribed anti-hypertensive diuretic, inhibits the Na+/Cl- symporter in the distal convoluted tubule (DCT) and collecting duct, resulting in sodium being excreted along with water by osmosis, thus decreasing blood pressure.
It's important to note that diuretics not only increase urinary output, but also play a role in managing electrolyte balance in the body and may be used to treat a variety of conditions including hypertension, congestive heart failure, and fluid retention associated with menstruation.