(LifeWire) - Spironolactone (Aldactone) is a diuretic -- a drug that helps the kidneys rid the body of excess fluid. This is important in treating heart failure.
A weak heart has trouble pumping all the blood it receives; as a result, fluid collects in other parts of the body, including the legs and lungs. Decreasing this excess fluid in the body makes the heart's job easier.
Spironolactone may also be used to treat high blood pressure. It comes in tablet form and is prescribed to be taken once or twice a day.
Dangerous interactions with other drugs and supplements are possible, so before taking spironolactone be sure to let your doctor know if you take or plan to take any of the following:
- Amiloride (Midamor) and triamterene (Dyrenium), which are used to treat high blood pressure and fluid retention
- Angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors, such as lisinopril (Zestril), which are used to treat congestive heart failure and hypertension
- Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen (Advil) and naproxen (Aleve), which are used to treat pain and inflammation
- Oral steroids, such as prednisone (Deltasone), that are used to treat a number of inflammatory and autoimmune diseases
- Nutritional supplements, especially those containing potassium
Many other diuretics can drain the body of potassium, an important mineral for the function of cells throughout the body. Because spironolactone does not have this effect, its fluid-draining properties may actually leave the body with an excess of potassium. For this reason, patients taking spironolactone may be asked to limit their intake of potassium-rich foods like bananas and raisins.
Other potential side effects include:
- Vomiting, diarrhea or stomach pains
- Dry mouth or excessive thirst
- Feeling dizzy or drowsy
- Headache
- Enlarged or painful breasts in men or women
- Irregular menstrual period
- Erectile dysfunction
- Deepening of voice
- Increased growth of body hair
If any of these persist or become severe, let your doctor know.
Drinking alcohol while taking spironolactone can cause dizziness and fainting, especially when you get up too quickly from lying down.
More serious side effects (such as abdominal pain, yellowing of the skin or vomiting blood) should be immediately reported to your doctor.
Sources:
"Spironolactone." MedlinePlus. 1 May 2007. National Institutes of Health. 13 Nov. 2008 <http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/druginfo/meds/a682627.html>.
"Congestive Heart Failure." MedlinePlus. 2008. National Institutes of Health. 13 Nov. 2008 <http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/tutorials/congestiveheartfailure/ct129103.pdf>.
