GENERIC NAME: spironolactone
BRAND NAME: Aldactone
DRUG CLASS AND MECHANISM: One of the main functions of
the
kidneys is to retain salt (sodium chloride) and water. In
patients with
heart failure and cirrhosis, increased levels of a hormone
produced by the
adrenal glands, called aldosterone, causes salt and fluid
retention by the
kidneys. Spironolactone inhibits the action of aldosterone
causing the
kidneys to excrete salt and fluid while retaining potassium.
Therefore,
spironolactone is classified as a potassium-sparing medication
that
promotes the output of urine (diuretic).
PRESCRIPTION: yes
GENERIC AVAILABLE: yes
PREPARATIONS: Tablets (25mg, 50mg, and 100mg).
STORAGE: Should be stored at room temperature.
PRESCRIBED FOR: Spironolactone is used as a diuretic to
remove
the excess fluid caused by congestive heart failure, cirrhosis
of the
liver, and kidney disease. It can also be used to treat
elevated blood
pressure in combination with other drugs and in resistant cases
of low
potassium (hypokalemia). Spironolactone is also used to
counteract the
effects of excessive adrenal aldosterone production. Aldosterone
overproduction can occur from a tumor in the adrenal gland, or
when
enlarged adrenal glands produce an excessive amount of
aldosterone.
DOSING: May be taken with or without food.
DRUG INTERACTIONS: Spironolactone can lower blood
sodium levels
while raising flood potassium levels. Excessively high blood
potassium
levels can lead to potentially life-threatening heart rhythm
abnormalities. Therefore, spironolactone usually is not
administered with other agents that can raise blood potassium levels, such as
potassium
supplements, ACE inhibitors,
indometacin (Indocin), or other
potassium-sparing diuretics. Spironolactone can cause elevation
of blood
digoxin (Lanoxin) levels, requiring adjustment of the digoxin
dosage.
SIDE EFFECTS: Enlargement of the breasts (gynecomastia)
is a not
infrequent side effect. Rare side effects include diarrhea, cramps, drowsiness, rash, impotence, irregular menstrual periods, and
irregular
hair growth.
Last Editorial Review: 12/31/1997
Report Problems to the Food and Drug Administration
You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit the FDA MedWatch website or call 1-800-FDA-1088.
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From the Doctors at MedicineNet.com  |
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- Congestive Heart Failure - Read about congestive heart failure symptoms like fatigue, abdomen, leg and ankle swelling, shortness of breath, sleeplessness, increased urination, nausea, abdominal pain, and decreased appetite. Source:MedicineNet
- Cirrhosis Of The Liver - Learn about cirrhosis of the liver; including causes, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment and medical research. Source:MedicineNet
- Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) - Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) symptoms include: acne, obesity, irregular or no periods, and excess hair growth. Treatments for PCOS depend on the woman's stage of life. Source:MedicineNet
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