Eplerenone can be used alone or in combination with other medications to treat high blood pressure. It is also used to improve the survival rate in patients with myocardial infarction, congestive heart failure or left ventricular systolic dysfunction.
What is Eplerenone?
Eplerenone works by blocking the action of aldosterone. In this way, it reduces the amount of sodium and water retained by the body, thus helping to reduce blood pressure. By going so, it consequently reduces the risk of stroke, heart attacks and kidney problems.
How should Eplerenone be taken?
Eplerenone is administered orally in the form of tablets.
Side effects associated with Eplerenone
Eplerenone can reduce the ability to fight infections and reduce the number of platelets in the blood. It can also increase the skin's sensitivity to the sun.
Among the other possible side effects of Eplerenone include the following:
- Dizziness
- Fatigue
You should contact a doctor immediately if you experience:
- Rash
- Urticaria
- Itch
- Difficulty breathing
- Tightness in the chest
- Swelling of the mouth, face, lips, or tongue
- Bloody vaginal discharge
- Chest pains
- Increased breast pain (in men)
- Fast or irregular heartbeat
- Persistent or severe diarrhea or dizziness
- Swelling of the legs, ankles or feet
- Vomiting
Contraindications and warnings associated with the use of Eplerenone
Eplerenone may interfere with the ability to drive or operate hazardous machinery. This side effect can be exacerbated by alcohol or other drugs.
During treatment with Eplerenone, it is advised not to consume salt substitutes or potassium supplements without first consulting with your doctor. It is also important to tell your doctor if:
- You have any allergies to the active substance, its excipients or any other drugs or food
- You are taking any other medications, herbal remedies or supplements. Mentioning in particular: other diuretics, ACE inhibitors, angiotensin II receptors, potassium supplements, azole antifungals, macrolide antibiotics, nefazodone, protease inhibitors, verapamil, lithium and Fans
- You are suffering (or have suffered) from severe kidney problems, high potassium levels in the blood, type 2 diabetes or protein in the urine
- You are pregnant or breastfeeding
Finally, it is important to warn physicians, surgeons and dentists of any ongoing treatment with Eplerenone. This drug should not be discontinued without a doctor’s approval. The lasting effect of the drug can take up to four weeks.
