Medication Basics

Generic Name: Spironolactone

Brand Name: Aldactone
Medication Class: Aldosterone inhibitor

Description

Spironolactone and eplerenone are medications used in the treatment of chronic or congestive heart failure and inhibit a harmful hormone secreted by the kidney known as aldosterone. Over time, these medications improve survival in patients with severe heart failure and can help to slow down or reverse the disease process. Eplerenone may be preferred over spironolactone if certain hormonal side effects develop. Both drugs are also considered diuretics, but do not tend to cause extra fluid loss at the doses usually used for heart failure.

When might my doctor prescribe this medication?

Severe chronic or congestive heart failure
After a heart attack or acute coronary syndrome where the heart was weakened

I should NOT take this medication if:

I have had a severe allergic reaction to spironolactone in the past
I have severe kidney disease

Adverse Effects (common):

Fatigue
Enlarged breasts or breast pain/tenderness

Adverse Effects (rare, but serious):

High blood levels of potassium

Common Adult Doses and Forms:

Spironolactone (Aldactone): 12.5 to 25 mg once daily

Dosage Forms:
Spironolactone (Aldactone) (tablet): 25 mg, 50 mg, 100 mg

How should I take this medication?

Spironolactone should be taken with meals or a snack. Regular laboratory monitoring will be needed, especially at first, to check potassium levels.

Please note that the content on CardioSmart is a summary of the most generally pertinent information about this drug but does not cover every side effect or precaution. However, everyone is unique, and the extent to which the information applies specifically to you should be a key point of discussion between you and your cardiologist or health care provider. The ultimate judgment regarding your care must be made by you and your healthcare provider together, in light of circumstances specific to you as a patient.