Generic Name: Spironolactone
Brand Names: Aldactone, CaroSpir
Spironolactone is a potassium-sparing diuretic and aldosterone antagonist used to treat heart failure, high blood pressure, and fluid retention. It is also used to treat hormonal acne and hirsutism in women.
is prescribed to treat:
• Heart failure (reduces mortality and hospitalizations) • High blood pressure (hypertension) • Edema (fluid retention) from various causes • Primary hyperaldosteronism • Cirrhosis with ascites • Nephrotic syndrome • Hormonal acne in women (off-label) • Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) symptoms (off-label) • Hirsutism (excessive hair growth in women) (off-label)
It helps remove excess fluid while retaining potassium.
Common side effects may include:
• Increased urination • Dizziness or lightheadedness • Headache • Nausea or vomiting • Diarrhea or stomach cramps • Drowsiness • Irregular menstrual periods • Breast tenderness or enlargement (in both men and women)
Serious side effects (seek immediate medical attention):
• Signs of high potassium (muscle weakness, slow/irregular heartbeat, severe dizziness) • Severe dehydration (very dry mouth, extreme thirst, muscle cramps) • Signs of electrolyte imbalance • Severe allergic reactions • Unusual bleeding or bruising • Yellowing of skin or eyes (liver problems) • Confusion or mental changes
Spironolactone is a unique medication that serves multiple purposes in medicine. Primarily classified as a potassium-sparing diuretic and aldosterone antagonist, it is used to treat heart failure, high blood pressure, and fluid retention. Additionally, due to its anti-androgenic properties, it is commonly prescribed off-label for hormonal acne and excess hair growth in women.
Spironolactone has several mechanisms of action:
As an Aldosterone Antagonist:
As a Potassium-Sparing Diuretic:
As an Anti-Androgen:
Heart Failure:
Edema/Fluid Retention:
Hormonal Acne in Women:
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS):
Hirsutism:
Dosing varies significantly based on the condition being treated:
For Heart Failure:
For Hypertension/Edema:
For Acne/Hirsutism (Off-Label):
Administration Tips:
Do not take spironolactone if you have:
Use with extreme caution if you have:
Dangerous Interactions (Risk of High Potassium):
Other Important Interactions:
Critical Monitoring:
Potassium Levels:
Kidney Function:
Blood Pressure:
Electrolytes:
For Heart Failure Patients:
To minimize hyperkalemia risk:
Important Considerations:
Maximizing Benefits for Acne:
While taking spironolactone:
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:
Contact your doctor for routine issues:
Clinical evidence shows spironolactone:
For Heart Failure:
For Hypertension:
For Acne (Off-Label):
Store spironolactone at room temperature (77°F/25°C) with excursions permitted to 59-86°F (15-30°C). Protect from light and moisture. Keep in tight, light-resistant container. Keep out of reach of children and pets.
Spironolactone is widely available as an affordable generic. Brand names include Aldactone and CaroSpir (oral suspension). Generic versions are bioequivalent and significantly less expensive.
Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and is not intended to replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions about a medical condition or medication.
This medication is commonly used to treat or manage the following conditions:
Acne vulgaris, a chronic inflammatory skin condition, arises from clogged hair follicles due to excess sebum, dead skin cells, bacteria, hormones, genetics, diet, stress, or medications.
Atrial fibrillation, a common arrhythmia characterized by rapid, irregular heartbeats, increases risk of stroke and heart failure, often linked to age, hypertension, and heart disease.
ADHD is a neurodevelopmental disorder marked by inattention, hyperactivity, and/or impulsivity, stemming from complex interactions between genetics, brain differences, and environmental factors, not poor parenting.
Cirrhosis is irreversible, late-stage liver disease where scar tissue replaces healthy tissue, impairing its vital functions like filtering toxins and often caused by alcohol abuse or hepatitis.
Heart failure stemming from coronary artery disease arises from narrowed arteries restricting blood flow, weakening or stiffening the heart muscle and reducing its pumping efficiency.
Hives (urticaria) are itchy, raised welts caused by histamine release, triggered by allergens, physical stimuli, medications, infections, stress, or sometimes, unknown factors.
Portal hypertension, an elevated pressure in the portal vein due to blockage often from cirrhosis or other pre-hepatic causes, can lead to serious complications like bleeding and ascites.
Secondary pulmonary hypertension, unlike its primary form, arises from underlying conditions such as heart/lung disease, blood clots, or connective tissue disorders, increasing lung artery pressure.
Vertigo, a spinning sensation distinct from dizziness, often stems from inner ear or brain issues like BPPV or Meniere's, sometimes triggered by head trauma or medication.
Medical Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult with your healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. Your doctor can provide personalized recommendations based on your specific health condition and medical history.
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