Ethacrynic acid, a diuretic, functions as an inhibitor of L-type voltage-dependent and store-operated calcium channels, facilitating the relaxation of airway smooth muscle (ASM) cells. It exhibits anti-inflammatory effects, notably reducing retinoid-induced ear edema in mice, and inhibits glutathione S-transferases (GSTs), making it a potent suppressor of the NF-kB signaling pathway. Additionally, ethacrynic acid modulates leukotriene formation. A variant, Ethacrynic acid D5, is distinguished by its deuterium labeling.
Ethacrynate Sodium, the sodium salt form of ethacrynic acid, could inhibit symport of chloride, potassium, and sodium primarily in the ascending limb of Henle, but also in the proximal and distal tubules.