Spironolactone Description

Generic Name : SPIRONOLACTONE

Pronunciation : (speer on oh lak' tone)

Trade Name(s) : Aldactone

Why it is prescribed: Spironolactone is used to treat high blood pressure and water retention caused by conditions such as heart and liver disease and lung problems. It causes the kidneys to eliminate unneeded water into the urine.

When it is to be taken: Spironolactone is usually taken twice a day. Follow the instructions on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor to explain any part that you do not understand. If you are to take spironolactone once a day, take it in the morning; if you are to take it twice a day, take it in the morning and in the late afternoon to avoid going to the bathroom at night.

How it should be taken: Spironolactone comes in the form of tablets. Your prescription label tells you how mcuh to take at each dose. Take spironolactone with meals or immediately after eating. Your doctor may change your dose from time to time, depending on your response.

Special Instruction :
1. Weigh yourself once a day or once every other day, and contact your doctor if you gain weight rapidly.
2. Keep all appointments with your doctor. Your blood pressure should be checked regularly, and blood tests may be done occasionally. Do not stop taking spironolactone without consulting your doctor.
3. Special dietary instructions should be followed. Avoid salt substitutes containing potassium and excessive amounts of potassium-rich foods such as bananas, apricots, coconut, dates, prunes, peaches, and grapefruit, tomato, and orange juices.
4. If you forget to take a dose, take the missed dose as soon as you remember it and take any remaining doses for that day at evenly spaced intervals. However, if it is almost time for the next scheduled dose, omit the missed dose. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed dose.

Side Effects :
1. Frequent urination. This common side effect usually disappears after a few weeks.
2. Muscle weakness, fatigue, decreased sexual ability, increased breast size, breast soreness, palpitations. Contact your doctor; your medication may have to be changed.

Other Precautions :
1. If you ever had kidney or liver problems, tell your doctor before taking spironolactone.
2. Aspirin may decrease the effects of spironolactone, and other medications may lower blood pressure too much, causing lightheadness and faintness.
3. Tell your doctor what prescription and nonprescription medications you are taking before taking spironolactone.
4. If you are breast-feeding a baby or if you become pregnant, let your doctor know.
5. Before having surgery, including dental surgery, tell the doctor that you take spironolactone.
6. Do not allow anyone else to take this medication.

Storage Conditions : Keep this medication in the container it came in and out of the reach of children.