What is this medication for?
Spironolactone belongs to the class of medications known as diuretics (water
pills). It is used for the treatment of edema (fluid retention) that
occurs with congestive heart failure and disorders of the liver and kidney.
It is also used for the treatment of high blood pressure, for the treatment
and prevention of low blood potassium levels, and treat primary hyperaldosteronism,
a condition where the body makes too much of the substance aldosterone. Spironolactone
is usually used when other treatments have been unsuccessful or are inappropriate.
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.
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 have not discussed this with your doctor
or are not sure why you are taking this medication, speak to 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. Do not stop taking this medication without
consulting your doctor.
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, 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.
Store this medication at room temperature and keep it out of the reach of children.
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 very important that this medication be taken on a regular schedule as
prescribed by the doctor. If you miss a dose of this medication, take it as
soon as you remember it. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed
dose and carry on with your regular schedule. Do not take a double dose to
make up for a missed one.
Who should NOT take this medication?
Spironolactone should not be used by anyone who:
- is allergic to spironolactone or any of the ingredients of the medication
- is unable to urinate
- has significantly reduced kidney function
- has high potassium blood levels (hyperkalemia)
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