Spironolactone
Spironolactone Information

About Spironolactone

Spironolactone is a potassium-sparing diuretic. Spironolactone is a synthetic 17-spirolactone steroid that is competititive antagonist of aldosterone. Spironolactone is used as an antihypertensive agent. It frequently is used to treat ascites associated with cirrhosis and also has been used as a diagnostic aid for primary hyperaldosteronism. Spironolactone is a poor agent for treating hypertension or generalized edema, although its effects can be additive with thiazide diuretics. It was approved by the FDA in 1960.

Indications

Spironolactone is primarily indicated in conditions like All forms of epilepsy, Congestive heart failure, Electrolyte disorder, For prophylaxis in pregnancy, Hirsutism, Hyperaldoesteronism, Hypertension, Myoclonus, Nephrotic syndrome, Oedema, Oedema and ascites in cirrhosis of the liver, Parkinson's disease; drug-induced extrapyramidal symptoms, Primary hyperaldosteronism, Tobacco amblyopia and leber's optic atrophy.

Contraindication

Spironolactone is contraindicated in conditions like Renal failure,Hyperkalaemia.

Side Effects

The severe or irreversible adverse effects of Spironolactone, which give rise to further complications include Impotence, Loss of libido, Gynacomastia, Menstrual irregularities.Spironolactone produces potentially life-threatening effects which include Agranulocytosis, Eosinophilia, Peptic ulceration, Hematemesis. which are responsible for the discontinuation of Spironolactone therapy.The signs and symptoms that are produced after the acute overdosage of Spironolactone include Diarrhea, Drowsiness, Dizziness, Mental confusion.The symptomatic adverse reactions produced by Spironolactone are more or less tolerable and if they become severe, they can be treated symptomatically, these include Headache, Drowsiness, Ataxia, Mental confusion.

Warnings

Use spironolactone cautiously in kidney or liver problems. It should be used with caution during pregnancy or lactation. Before surgery, including dental surgery, tell the doctor about using spironolactone. It should be used with caution in patients with diabetes, liver or kidney disease, gout or menstrual irregularities. Do not allow anyone else to take this medication.

High Risk Groups

Drug should not be given to Pregnant Mothers, patients suffering from Kidney dysfunction, Geriatrics, and Neonates.If prescribing authority justifies the benefits of the drug against the possible damages he/she should reevaluate them and consult the reference material and previous studies.