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Common brand name: Aldactone
Type of medication: Spironolactone is a type of
medication called a "potassium sparing" diuretic. Diuretics are used
to remove a surplus of fluid from the body's bloodstream or tissues. It also
acts as an aldosterone inhibitor (prevents salt retention), and is used to treat
advanced heart failure when symptoms persist after other drug therapies are
maximized. When it is used in this manner, it is not used as a diuretic to
remove extra fluid from the body.
Why is this drug prescribed?
Spironolactone is used to treat high blood pressure, congestive heart
failure, kidney and liver disease and conditions in which there are abnormally
low levels of potassium in the blood.
How and when should spironolactone be taken?
Spironolactone comes in a tablet and is usually taken once or twice a day,
depending on dosage. It should be taken with a meal or milk to increase
absorption. Avoid eating excessive amounts of foods high in potassium such
broccoli, spinach, salmon, citrus fruits, apples and bananas, as well as salt
substitutes
The dosage of spironolactone varies from person to person. In heart failure
treatment, only low doses are used. Follow the directions on the prescription
label carefully. If there is any part that you do not understand, ask your
doctor or pharmacist. Do not take any more or less than prescribed. Do not take
it more often than prescribed. Even after you begin to feel better, NEVER stop
taking spironolactone without first consulting your doctor as you could cause
your condition to become worse.
What special precautions should I follow before using this drug?
Before taking spironolactone, tell your doctor:
- If you are allergic to spironolactone, hydrochlorothiazide, or sulfa
drugs.
- If you are taking vitamins, herbals, dietary supplements, and other
prescription and nonprescription (over-the-counter) medications and
especially if you are currently taking potassium supplements and ACE
inhibitor medications such as Vasotec.
- If you have or have ever had liver or kidney disease.
- If you are having difficulty urinating or are unable to urinate
- If you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant or are breastfeeding. If you
become pregnant while taking spironolactone, call your doctor right away.
What special instructions should I follow while using this drug?
Avoid hazardous activity such as driving until it is clear what effects
spironolactone will have on you. It is important that your doctor checks your
progress at regular intervals while you are taking spironolactone. If your
condition does not improve, or becomes worse, tell your doctor. Take caution
when exercising in hot weather.
Notify your doctor or dentist that you are taking spironolactone if you have
a medical emergency and before you have surgery or a dental treatment.
What should I do if I forget a dose?
If a dose is missed, simply take it as soon as possible. However, if it is
close to when you are scheduled to take your next dose, simply skip the missed
dose and proceed with your regular schedule. Do not take a double dose.
What are the common side effects?
Although side effects from spironolactone are uncommon, they do occur. Call
you doctor if any of the following symptoms become severe or do not go away:
- Nausea
- Headache
- Low blood pressure
- Constipation
- Dizziness
- Shortness of breath
- Breast pain or tenderness (in men)
If you experience any other side effects that you think could be caused by
this medication and/or are of concern to you, call your doctor.
When should I call my doctor?
Stop taking spironolactone and call your doctor immediately if the following
symptoms occur:
- Excessive sweating
- Severe diarrhea
- Vomiting
- Problems urinating
- Confusion
- Numbness in hands, feet, or lips
- Increased thirst
What storage conditions are necessary for this drug?
Spironolactone should be kept in its original container, tightly sealed and
away from children. It should be stored in room temperature, away from excess
heat and moisture (not in the bathroom or near the kitchen sink). Never share
your medication with anyone. Never take outdated medications. Some medication
prescription labels list an expiration date. If such a date is not on your
medication label or if you are unsure how old a medication is, call your
pharmacy.
This handout summarizes information to help you understand and safely take
your medication. Other information--not included in this handout--may be
important for you to know because of your unique health status. Ask your doctor
and/or pharmacist for more information on the medications prescribed for you and
your unique health care needs.
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