Indications 

Aldactone is a diuretic medication primarily utilized to manage high potassium levels or hypokalemia, which may be caused by the overproduction of aldosterone in the body or hyperaldosteronism.  

Aldactone is prescribed to treat various health conditions such as heart failure, hypertension, edema or fluid retention, nephrotic syndrome, and cirrhosis of the liver. 

Aldactone is an effective medication that may be used alone or in conjunction with other drugs to manage conditions resulting from fluid retention and hyperaldosteronism. 

Uses and Dosage 

Take this medication orally in accordance with your doctor’s instructions. If you experience stomach discomfort, consume it with food or milk. To avoid the need to urinate during the night, take your dose early in the day (prior to 6 p.m.). If you have any inquiries, please seek advice from your doctor or pharmacist. 

The dosage of this medication is determined by your medical condition and reaction to treatment. In children, the dosage is determined by their body weight. 

To gain the most benefit from this medication, take it on a regular basis. Make sure to take it at the same time(s) every day as prescribed. Even if you feel well, keep taking this medication. Most individuals with high blood pressure do not feel unwell. 

Follow the prescription precisely. Do not increase your dosage, take it more often than prescribed, or discontinue use without consulting your doctor first. Suddenly stopping the medication may worsen your condition. 

If you notice a rise in your regular blood pressure readings, inform your doctor right away as your condition may have deteriorated. 

Side Effects 

Common Side Effects 

Some side effects are common and do not require medical intervention. However, if these symptoms persist, worsen, are severe, or are interfering with your life in any way, contact your doctor. Common side effects include: 

• Low blood pressure:
  • Dizziness
  • Fainting
  • Lightheadedness
  • Fainting spells when standing up quickly
• Increased blood sugar:
  • Constant urination
  • Thirst
  • Hunger
• Fever 
• Frequent urination 
• Breast swelling and/or tenderness 
• Headache 
• Dizziness 
• Nausea 
• Flatulence 
• Constipation 
• Stomach pain 

In some cases, common side effects may be similar to side effects caused by the development of a serious condition. Monitor your health for concurrent side effects that match up with a serious side effect, and contact your doctor right away if you encounter any serious side effects or have reasons to suspect a health condition has developed. 

Serious Side Effects 

Serious side effects can occur while taking medication. If you experience any of the following symptoms, contact your doctor immediately: 

• Low blood-potassium levels:
  • muscle weakness,
  • general fatigue,
  • irregular heartbeats 
• Kidney disorders:
  • Change in urination frequency
  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Swelling of hands and feet
  • Fatigue 
• Liver disorders:
  • Jaundice
  • Darkened urine
  • Abdominal pain
  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Loss of appetite 
• Electrolyte deficiency:
  • Weakness
  • Drowsiness
  • Muscle pain
  • Cramps
  • Twitches 
• Irregular heartbeats 
• Confusion 
• Pain and swelling in the breast (dangerous for men) 
• Vomiting blood 
• Rapid weight loss 
• Shortness of breath 
• Skin rash 
• Stomach ulcers:
  • Burning pain in the gut
  • Dyspepsia
  • Vomiting
• Anemia:
  • Fatigue
  • Low energy, pale skin
  • Redness in the extremities
  • Generalized weakness
  • Shortness of breath 
• Pancreatic inflammation:
  • Dyspepsia
  • Abdominal pain when lying down
  • Nausea
  • Vomiting 
• Cardiovascular events:
  • Chest pain
  • Difficulty breathing  
• Epidermal necrolysis:
  • Peeling of the skin, notably on the face near the mouth and eyes  

Allergic Reactions

Stop taking drug immediately and contact your doctor if you experience: 

• Rashes
• Hives
• Swelling of the face
• Difficulty breathing  

Caution 

Prior to taking spironolactone, inform your healthcare provider or pharmacist about any allergies you may have to the medication or other substances. This product may contain inactive constituents that can trigger allergic reactions or other complications, therefore, speak with a pharmacist for additional details. 

Before using this medication, discuss your medical history, particularly if you have kidney or liver problems, untreated mineral imbalances, or adrenal gland dysfunction (such as Addison’s disease) with your healthcare provider or pharmacist. 

Inform your doctor or dentist of all products you are using, including prescription and non-prescription medications and herbal supplements, before undergoing any surgical procedure. 

This medication has the potential to elevate your potassium levels. Prior to taking potassium supplements or salt substitutes containing potassium, consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist. Furthermore, limit the consumption of potassium-rich foods like bananas, tomatoes, potatoes, and low-salt milk, and to speak with your healthcare provider or pharmacist for further recommendations. 

This drug may cause dizziness or drowsiness. Using alcohol or marijuana (cannabis) while taking this medication can amplify these effects. Refrain from operating machinery or driving. Limit alcohol consumption, and to consult your doctor if you are using marijuana (cannabis). 

Older adults may be more prone to experiencing the side effects of this medication, particularly the effects on potassium. 

During pregnancy, use this medication only when necessary, after consulting with your healthcare provider regarding the benefits and potential risks.