Why is Aldactone prescribed?

Spironolactone, a 'water pill,' is used to treat high blood pressure and fluid retention caused by various conditions, including heart disease. It causes the kidneys to eliminate unneeded water and salt from the body into the urine. Spironolactone also is used to treat certain patients with hyperaldosteronism and in certain patients with low potassium levels.

Spironolactone is sometimes prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.

How should Aldactone be used?

Spironolactone comes as a tablet to take by mouth. It usually is taken once a day in the morning with breakfast or twice a day with breakfast and lunch. Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Take spironolactone exactly as directed. Do not take more or less of it or take it more often than prescribed by your doctor. Spironolactone controls high blood pressure but does not cure it. Continue to take spironolactone even if you feel well. Do not stop taking spironolactone without talking to your doctor.

What special precautions should I follow?

Before taking aldactone, - tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to spironolactone, sulfa drugs, or any other drugs.

• tell your doctor and pharmacist what prescription and nonprescription medications you are taking, especially aspirin; captopril (Capoten); digoxin (Lanoxin); enalapril (Vasotec); lisinopril (Prinivil, Zestril); lithium (Eskalith, Lithobid); medications for arthritis, diabetes, or high blood pressure; potassium supplements; and vitamins. Do not take this medicine if you are taking amiloride or triamterene.
• tell your doctor if you have or have ever had diabetes, gout, or kidney or liver disease.
• tell your doctor if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding. If you become pregnant while taking spironolactone, call your doctor immediately.
• if you are having surgery, including dental surgery, tell the doctor or dentist that you are taking spironolactone.
• you should know that this drug may make you drowsy. Do not drive a car or operate machinery until you know how this drug affects you.
• remember that alcohol can add to the drowsiness caused by this drug.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

Take the missed dose as soon as you remember it. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.

What side effects can Aldactone cause?

Although side effects from spironolactone are not common, they can occur. Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go away:

• upset stomach
• vomiting
• diarrhea
• stomach pain
• frequent urination
• dizziness
• headache
• enlarged or painful breasts
• irregular menstrual periods
• drowsiness

If you experience any of the following symptoms, call your doctor immediately:

• muscle weakness or cramps
• rapid, excessive weight loss
• fatigue
• slow or irregular heartbeat
• sore throat
• unusual bruising or bleeding
• yellowing of the skin or eyes
• skin rash
• vomiting blood
• fever
• confusion

What storage conditions are needed for Aldactone?

Keep this medicine in the container it came in, tightly closed, and out of reach of children. Store it at room temperature and away from excess heat and moisture (not in the bathroom). Throw away any medicine that is outdated or no longer needed. Talk to your pharmacist about the proper disposal of your medicine.

What other information should I know?

Keep all appointments with your doctor and the laboratory. Your blood pressure should be checked regularly, and blood tests should be done occasionally. Do not let anyone else take your medicine. Ask your pharmacist any questions you have about refilling your prescription.