Spironolactone is used to treat many different disorders, from high blood pressure to fluid retention. Spironolactone is a diuretic, which is often also called a water pill. Diuretics are used to treat high blood pressure and congestive heart failure usually in combination with other medications. Spironolactone controls high blood pressure but does not cure it, so keep taking it even if you feel well.
For adults, an initial daily dosage of 50 to 100 mg of Aldactone administered in either single or divided doses is recommended. Aldactone may also be given with diuretics which act more proximally in the renal tubule or with other antihypertensive agents. Spironolactone has been shown to be a tumorigen in chronic toxicity studies in rats Aldactone should be used only in those conditions described under Indications and Usage . Concomitant administration of potassium-sparing diuretics and ACE inhibitors or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), eg, indomethacin, has been associated with severe hyperkalemia. If hyperkalemia is suspected (warning signs include paresthesia, muscle weakness, fatigue, flaccid paralysis of the extremities, bradycardia and shock) an electrocardiogram (ECG) should be obtained.
Like any medication, spironolactone may cause side effects including feeling dizzy or lightheaded, upset stomach, dry mouth, skin rash, muscle cramps or spasms, swelling and tenderness of the breasts both males and females.