Aldactone is a potassium-sparing diuretic (water pill) that stops the body from absorbing too much salt and keeps the potassium levels from decreasing greatly. It is prescribed for the treatment of hypertension (high blood pressure) as well as to treat fluid retention (edema) in people with congestive heart failure, cirrhosis of the liver, or a kidney disorder called nephritic syndrome. It is also used to treat or prevent hypokalemia or low potassium levels in the blood.
Spironolactone is also prescribed for the diagnosis or treatment of a condition in which there is too much aldosterone in the body. Aldosterone is a hormone secreted by the adrenal glands that helps regulate the salt and water balance in the body. Spironolactone is sold under various trade names, one of which is Aldactone (made by RPG Life Sciences).
Aldactone – Dosage
The recommended dosage of Aldactone tablets for various indications is given below. Please contact your doctor for exact dosing instructions since dosage is individualised.
Edema in adults (congestive heart failure, hepatic cirrhosis, or nephrotic syndrome).
An initial daily dosage of 100 mg of Aldactone administered in either single or divided doses is recommended, but the dosage may range from 25 mg to 200 mg daily.
When do I need to seek medical help
If you think there was an overdose, call your local poison control center or ER right away. Signs of a very bad reaction to the drug. These include wheezing; chest tightness; fever; itching; bad cough; blue or gray skin color; seizures; or swelling of face, lips, tongue, or throat. Very bad dizziness or passing out. Signs of high potassium. Very upset stomach or throwing up. Very loose stools (diarrhea). For women, period changes. These include lots of bleeding, spotting, or bleeding between cycles. ? For men, enlarged breasts. Any rash. Side effect or health problem is not better or you are feeling worse.
Side Effects
Some common side effects of Spironolactone are reduced heart rate, dizziness, nausea, headache, or fatigue. However, if any of these side effects persist or deteriorate, seek medical attention right away.
Some serious side effects or allergic reactions due to Spironolactone are rash, itching, swelling of face, tongue, or throat, or breathing trouble, symptoms of high potassium that can be fatal (slow or irregular heartbeat, muscle weakness), unusual fatigue, sudden or unexplained weight gain, increased thirst, change in amount of urine, severe dizziness, muscle spasms, menstrual period changes, breast enlargement in men, sexual function problems, severe stomach or abdominal pain, dark urine, yellowing of eyes and skin, or persistent nausea or vomiting.