What is this medication for?
Spironolactone belongs to the class of medications known as diuretics (water pills). This medication works by making the body lose excess water and salt. It is known as a potassium-sparing diuretic because it does not cause potassium to be lost from the body.
It is used to treat edema (fluid retention) that occurs with congestive heart failure, liver, and kidney disorders. It is also used to treat high blood pressure, to treat and prevent low blood potassium levels. It can be used to treat primary hyperaldosteronism, a condition where the body makes too much of the substance aldosterone. In certain situations, spironolactine is used in combination with other diuretics.
Your doctor may have suggested this medication for conditions other than those listed here. As well, some forms of this medication may not be used for all of the conditions discussed here. If you are not sure why you are taking this medication, speak to your doctor. Do not stop taking this medication without consulting your doctor.
Do not give this medication to anyone else, even if they have the same symptoms as you do. It can be harmful for people to take this medication if their doctor has not prescribed it.
What form(s) does this medication come in?
Aldactone® is available as:
Some medications may have other generic brands available. Always ask your doctor or pharmacist about the safety of switching between brands of the same medication.
How should I use this medication?
The recommended dose of spironolactone ranges from 25 mg to 400 mg
daily depending on the condition being treated. It can be taken in single or divided doses.
If a single daily dose is taken, it should be taken early in the day to avoid
the need to visit the washroom during sleeping hours.
For treatment of high
blood pressure or congestive heart failure, this medication is usually used
in combination with other medications. Spironolactone may be taken with or without
food.
Many things can affect the dose of medication that a person needs, such as
body weight, other medical conditions, and other medications. If your doctor
has recommended a dose different from the ones listed here, do not change
the way that you are taking the medication without consulting your doctor.
It is important to take this medication on a regular schedule as prescribed by the doctor. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember it. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one. If you are not sure what to do after missing a dose, contact your doctor or pharmacist for advice.
Store this medication at room temperature and keep it out of the reach of children.
Who should NOT take this medication?
Do not take this medication if you:
- are allergic to spironolactone or any ingredients of the medication
- are unable to urinate
- have high potassium blood levels (hyperkalemia)
- have significantly reduced kidney function