About Aldactone: Uses, Dosage and Side Effects

Aldactone is a brand name for spironolactone, a potassium-sparing diuretic (water pill) that maintains your potassium levels from falling too low by preventing your body from absorbing too much salt. It is most commonly used to treat:

• Heart attack
• Hypertension (high blood pressure)
• Hypokalemia (low potassium levels in the blood)

Fluid retention (edoema) in persons with congestive heart failure, cirrhosis of the liver, or nephrotic syndrome, a kidney condition.

A condition in which your body has an excess of aldosterone. Aldosterone is a hormone generated by your adrenal glands that aids in the regulation of your body's salt and water balance.

Dosage

Aldactone dosage is determined by your medical condition and reaction to treatment. Aldactone should be taken exactly as directed by your doctor. Read all drug guides or instruction sheets and follow all guidelines on your prescription label. Your dose may be adjusted on occasion by your doctor.

You can take Aldactone with or without food, but you must do so consistently. Taking it early in the day can help you avoid needing to wake up in the middle of the night to use the loo.

While taking this medication, you will require frequent medical examinations. Certain medical tests may be affected by this medication. Inform any doctor who treats you that you use Aldactone.

If you need surgery, inform your surgeon that you are currently on this medication.

Do not give this medicine to anybody else, even if they have the same symptoms as you.

Do not discontinue this medication without first visiting your doctor. Stopping abruptly may have negative consequences or exacerbate your health.

Side Effects Aldactone may induce the following side effects:

• Vomiting, diarrhoea, and stomach pain
• Drowsiness, dizziness, and headache
• Breast enlargement or discomfort (in both men and women)
• Menstrual irregularities and vaginal bleeding
• Changes in skin colour, hair loss or growth
• Impotence, increased or diminished libido

Some of the side effects may be severe and necessitate emergency medical attention, such as:

• Feeling dizzy, as if you're about to pass out
• There is little or no urinating.

Nausea, weakness, tingling sensation, chest pain, irregular heartbeats, and loss of movement are all symptoms of a high potassium level.

Other electrolyte imbalance symptoms include excessive thirst or urination, disorientation, vomiting, muscle discomfort or weakness, a rapid or slow heart rate, and fainting.

Hives, difficulty breathing, swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat are all symptoms of an allergic reaction.

This is not an exhaustive list of possible adverse effects; more may arise. For medical advice on side effects, contact your doctor. You can contact the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 to report side effects.

Precautions

Tell your doctor if you are allergic to spironolactone or any other drugs before taking Aldactone.

Inform your doctor if you have any medical issues, particularly:

• Addison's disease (a problem with the adrenal glands)
• Hyperkalemia (excess potassium in the blood)
• Kidney disease or urination issues
• Cirrhosis of the liver
• Arrhythmia or heart disease
• Diabetes Lupus Gout

If you are pregnant or want to become pregnant, inform your doctor. Having congestive heart failure, cirrhosis, or uncontrolled high blood pressure during pregnancy might result in medical complications for either the mother or the foetus. If you are pregnant, you should consult your doctor before using Aldactone.

Inform your doctor if you are or plan to breastfeed. Breastfeeding may be unsafe when taking this medication. Inquire with your doctor about any potential risks.

Inform your doctor about all of your medications, including prescription and over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and herbal supplements. Some medications may interact with Aldactone, altering its effectiveness or increasing the risk of side effects. Some medications that may interact with Aldactone include:

• ACE inhibitors based on eplerenone
• Angiotensin II receptor antagonists
• NSAIDs
• Lithium Digoxin Warfarin Steroids
• Insulin or diabetic medications taken orally

This is not an exhaustive list of possible drug interactions; more may occur. Before beginning or discontinuing any medications, consult with your doctor.

You may be advised to minimise your intake of potassium-containing salts or salt substitutes while using Aldactone. You should also avoid consuming alcohol because it can exacerbate some of the side effects of this medication.

While using this medication, you should avoid exposure to sunlight or tanning beds because it can make your skin more sensitive to sunburn. When going outside, use sunscreen and wear protective gear.