Aldactone 100 mg

Aldactone 100 mg is a medication primarily used to treat high blood pressure, heart failure and swelling caused by excess fluid in the body. This medicine belongs to the drug class called Potassium-sparing diuretics. The active ingredient present in it is Spironolactone. 

Key Features

MECHANISM OF ACTION 

The active ingredient, Spironolactone is a potassium-sparing diuretic. It works by blocking the action of a natural hormone called aldosterone. The role of aldosterone in the body is to signal the kidneys to hold onto sodium and water while excreting potassium. By blocking this hormone, Aldactone 100 mg prompts your kidneys to pass more sodium and water into the urine, while holding onto potassium. This decreases the overall volume of fluid circulating through the blood vessels thereby lowering the blood pressure. 

USES 

Aldactone 100 mg is usually prescribed for the following conditions:

• High blood pressure
• Hyperaldosteronism 
• Edema (fluid retention)
• Heart failure
• Acne and hormonal conditions in women 

SIDE EFFECTS 

• Enlarged breasts in male
• Low sodium in blood
• High Potassium levels in the blood
• Unusual discharge from vagina
• Abnormal cessation of menstrual periods
• Nausea
• Vomiting

INTERACTIONS 

1. Concomitant use of Aldactone with the following medications can cause an increase in the potassium levels of the blood:

• Blood thinners like warfarin
• Antibiotics like Coltrimoxazole
• Painkillers and NSAIDs

1. Aldactone tablets when taken with blood pressure lowering medications like Captopril and Lisinopril may lower the blood pressure excessively. 
2. Aldactone can increase the lithium levels in the body and increase the risk of lithium toxicity. 
3. Certain antibiotics like trimethoprim increase the risk of severe hyperkalemia. 
4. Concomitant use with Eplerenone is strictly prohibited. 

PRECAUTIONS 

• Avoid alcohol as it can cause an additive blood pressure-lowering effect leading to dizziness, lightheadedness and fatigue. 
• Avoid potassium chloride salt substitutes, multi-vitamins containing potassium and high-potassium diets. 
• Do not use the medication if your blood potassium levels are elevated. 
• The medication is generally contraindicated during pregnancy and breastfeeding. 
• The medication is contraindicated if you have Addison’s disease. 
• Do not use the medication if you are hypersensitive to Spironolactone or any other ingredients of the medication. 

CONCLUSION 

Aldactone 100 mg works best as part of a plan guided by your physician. Taking it regularly as prescribed, attending follow-up check-ups, and reporting any unusual symptoms early all help you get the most from your treatment. Never start, stop, or change your dose on your own, and talk to your physician or pharmacist if you have any questions about your medicine. 

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