Spironolactone can be used in the case of production of excessive amounts of the hormone aldosterone, low levels of potassium, heart failure and edema associated with various conditions, such as liver or kidney disease.
It can also be used, alone or in combination with other drugs, to treat high blood pressure and, in combination with other medicines, early puberty and myasthenia gravis. Finally, it may be useful in some cases of hirsutism.
What is Spironolactone?
Spironolactone is an aldosterone receptor antagonist. By binding to this molecule it induces the kidneys to remove the urine water and excess sodium, while reducing the loss of potassium from the body.
How should Spironolactone be taken?
Spironolactone is administered orally in the form of tablets taken 1 or 2 times a day. The doctor may prescribe a low initial dose and then gradually increase.
Side effects associated with Spironolactone
Among the possible adverse effects of Spironolactone are included:
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Pain or stomach cramps
- Dry mouth
- Thirst
- Dizziness
- Instability
- Headache
- Swollen or sore breasts
- Menstrual irregularities
- Vaginal bleeding after menopause
- Erection difficulties
- Deeper tone of voice
- Increased hair growth
- Drowsiness
- Fatigue
- Restlessness
In the event that these symptoms are severe or do not improve, it is recommended to contact your doctor. However, it is best to immediately consult a doctor if taking Spironolactone triggers any of the following symptoms:
- Pain, cramps or muscle weakness
- Pain, burning, numbness or tingling in hands or feet
- Paralysis of arms or legs
- Abnormal heart rhythm
- Confusion
- Nausea
- Excessive tiredness
- Bleeding or bruising
- Lack of energy
- Loss of appetite
- Pain in the right upper part of the abdomen
- Jaundice
- Flu-like symptoms
- Rash
- Urticaria
- Itching
- Difficulty breathing or swallowing
- Blood in vomit
- Blood in the stool
- Reduced production of urine
- Fainting
Contraindications and warnings associated with the use of Spironolactone
Before the treatment reaches its maximum efficacy, it may take a period of more than 2 weeks. The assumption must in no case be interrupted without first discussing it with your doctor.
Spironolactone may cause dizziness or fainting when standing up quickly from a lying position. Moreover, during treatment with Spironolactone it is recommended to reduce the consumption of sodium and practice regular physical activity. It is also better to avoid salt substitutes containing potassium and ask your doctor for advice on the consumption of foods rich in this mineral, such as bananas and plums.
Before starting the treatment, it is recommended to inform your doctor if:
- You have any allergy to the active substance or any other drug
- You are taking other medications, herbal remedies and supplements, particularly eplerenone, ACE inhibitors, angiotensin II receptor antagonists, aspirin and other NSAIDs, barbiturates, cholestyramine, digoxin, diuretics, heparin, enoxaparin, lithium, drugs against high blood pressure, narcotics, steroids (when taken orally) and potassium supplements
- You suffer (or have suffered) from Addison's disease or other conditions that can lead to increased potassium in the blood, kidney disease or liver disease
- You are pregnant or breastfeeding
Lastly, it is also important to inform surgeons and dentists about ongoing treatment with Spironolactone prior to any procedure.
