Aldactone(Spironolactone): Uses, Dosage, and Side Effects

Aldactone (spironolactone) is a potassium-sparing diuretic used for fluid retention in

• Heart failure
• Liver cirrhosis
• Kidney disease

It balances potassium levels and lowers blood pressure by blocking aldosterone receptors in the kidneys, increasing sodium and water excretion while retaining potassium.

What are the Uses of Aldactone Tablet(Spironolactone)?

Conditions Aldactone is Used to Treat

Aldactone is used to treat various conditions including:

• High blood pressure (Hypertension)
• Heart failure
• Low potassium levels in the blood (Hypokalemia)
• Fluid retention (Edema) is associated with conditions such as congestive heart failure, liver cirrhosis, and nephrotic syndrome (kidney diseases).

Secondary Benefits of Aldactone

Doctors may also prescribe Aldactone for:

• Hormonal acne (especially in women)
• Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
• Hirsutism (excess hair growth in women)
• Low potassium levels (hypokalemia), to help restore potassium balance

It is also prescribed to diagnose disorders characterised by excess aldosterone, a hormone produced by the adrenal glands that regulates salt and water balance.

How Does Aldactone(Spironolactone) Tablet Work?

Aldactone (spironolactone) works by blocking the action of a hormone called aldosterone. Aldosterone causes the body to retain salt and water. By blocking it, Aldactone:

• Helps the kidneys remove excess salt and water,
• Reduces fluid buildup in the body,
• Lowers blood pressure, and
• Helps balance potassium levels.

Aldactone helps your body get rid of extra fluid without losing too much potassium, making it beneficial for heart, liver, and kidney conditions.

Dosage Forms and Strengths of Aldactone(Spironolactone)

Aldactone: 25 mg, 50 mg and 100 mg

• Dosage for Heart Failure: The usual starting dose is Aldactone 25 mg once a day. Based on how well it works for you, the doctor might raise the dose Aldactone to 50 mg once a day.
• Dosage for High Blood Pressure: For Hypertension, the typical Aldactone dosage is 25 to 100 mg.
• Dosage for Edema: The typical initial dosage of Aldactone is 100 mg.

What Should I Do If I Miss a Dose?

If you forget to take a dose, try to take it as soon as you remember. But if your next dose is coming up soon, skip the missed dose and wait for the next one. Don't take two doses together, as this can increase the chance of side effects from Aldactone.

What happens if an Overdose?

Accidentally taking too much Aldactone can be harmful. It may cause severe effects on your body's functions and could lead to a medical emergency.

Symptoms of Overdose Aldactone (Spironolactone)

Taking too much Aldactone can lead to serious health issues. Common symptoms of overdose include:

• Drowsiness or confusion
• Dizziness or lightheadedness
• Nausea or vomiting
• Muscle weakness or cramps
• Irregular heartbeat (due to high potassium levels)
• Low blood pressure (hypotension)
• Slow or shallow breathing

If you are using the liquid form of this drug, shake the bottle just before each dose. Use a special measuring device or spoon to measure the dose accurately; do not use a regular household spoon. You can take the liquid form with or without food, but always choose one way and stick to it for each dose.

Aldactone(Spironolactone) Side Effects

Some of the common side effects of Aldactone are

• Dizziness
• Drowsiness
• Headache
• Itching
• Menstrual problems
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Stomach cramps

Some of the serious side effects of Aldactone are

• Allergic reaction
• Electrolyte imbalance
• Gynecomastia
• Skin allergies

Precautions and Warnings while taking Aldactone

Follow the prescribed dosage strictly, as directed by your doctor. Regularly monitor potassium levels, especially if you have kidney issues. Avoid additional potassium supplements or salt substitutes unless advised by your doctor. Be cautious when taking other medications, especially those affecting potassium levels or blood pressure.

Who Should Avoid Aldactone?

• Pregnant women: Aldactone may affect fetal hormone levels; avoid unless specifically prescribed.
• People with high potassium levels (hyperkalemia)
• Those with Addison s disease or other adrenal gland disorders
• Individuals allergic to spironolactone or any ingredients in Aldactone
• Inform your doctor about any medical conditions, especially Kidney problems, Liver problems, untreated mineral imbalance and decreased adrenal gland function.

Conditions where caution is needed

• Kidney or liver problems: Dose adjustment may be required.
• Diabetics: Risk of elevated potassium.
• People taking potassium supplements or other potassium-sparing drugs.
• Elderly patients: Higher sensitivity to side effects.

Are There Any Age Restrictions?

• Aldactone can be used in children, but only under a doctor's guidance and with carefully adjusted doses.
• Its use in elderly patients requires caution and regular monitoring.

Alcohol and Food Interactions

• Avoid alcohol: It can increase the risk of dizziness or fainting.
• Limit high-potassium foods (like bananas, oranges, and potatoes): Aldactone can raise potassium levels, leading to dangerous side effects.

Allergic Reactions to Aldactone

The number of times allergic reactions occurred in clinical trials for Aldactone is uncertain. Signs of a mild allergic reaction may include:

• Skin rash
• Itchiness
• Flushing (warmth, swelling and redness in the skin)
• Fever

Storage of Aldactone

Recommended Storage for Aldactone (Spironolactone)

• Store it in a safe place out of children's reach, ideally at room temperature between 68ºF and 77ºF (20ºC and 25ºC).
• Keep your medicine away from heat, air, and light, as they can damage it. Exposure to medicine can be harmful.
• Avoid direct sunlight and do not store in the bathroom.

What Happens If Aldactone Is Not Stored Properly?

• Exposure to heat, moisture, or light may reduce its effectiveness.
• Improper storage can cause the medicine to degrade, making it unsafe or less effective.

Safety Tips

• Keep out of reach of children and pets.
• Do not use the medicine if it has changed color, smell, or texture.
• Do not freeze.

Aldactone vs Spironolactone

References

Spironolactone - From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia