What is the most important information I should know about spironolactone?
Do not use this medication if you have
kidney disease, urination problems, or high
levels of potassium in your blood. Do not use potassium supplements or other diuretics while
you are taking spironolactone.
Before using this medication, tell your doctor if you have liver disease, or if you use a
steroid or another diuretic.
Avoid drinking alcohol, which can increase some of the side effects of
spironolactone.
Avoid a diet high in salt. Too much salt will cause your body to retain water and can
make this medication less effective.
Do not use salt substitutes or low-sodium milk products that contain potassium.
These products could cause your potassium levels to get too high while you are taking
spironolactone.
Avoid becoming overheated or dehydrated during exercise and in hot weather. Follow
your doctor's instructions about the type and amount of liquids you should drink. In some cases,
drinking too much liquid can be as unsafe as not drinking enough.
If you are being treated for high blood pressure, keep using this medication even if you
feel fine. High blood pressure often has no symptoms.
What is spironolactone?
Spironolactone is a potassium-sparing diuretic (water pill) that prevents your body from
absorbing too much salt and keeps your potassium levels from getting too low.
Spironolactone is used to diagnose or treat a condition in which you have too much
aldosterone in your body. Aldosterone is a hormone produced by your adrenal glands to help
regulate the salt and water balance in your body.
Spironolactone also treats fluid retention (edema) in people with congestive heart failure,
cirrhosis of the liver, or a kidney disorder called nephrotic syndrome. This medication is also
used to treat or prevent hypokalemia (low potassium levels in the blood).
Spironolactone may also be used for other purposes not listed in this medication guide.
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