Spironolactone

Spironolactone

Cardiovascular Prescription only ATC code: C03DA01

What it is

Spironolactone blocks the action of aldosterone in the kidney, so sodium and water are lost while potassium is held back rather than excreted. It also blocks androgen receptors. It is used for oedema, heart failure, high blood pressure, and androgen-driven skin problems.

Typical dose
25–100 mg
1× a day
Times
With food

Used for

  • Oedema
  • Heart failure
  • Hypertension
  • Skin

What to know while taking it

It is taken with food, which improves how much is absorbed and is easier on the stomach. Because it retains potassium, the level can climb too high, especially alongside lisinopril, enalapril or losartan, or with potassium and magnesium aspartate supplements and salt substitutes; those combinations are not necessarily wrong, but they are the reason blood is checked. Potassium, sodium, creatinine and eGFR are monitored, and impaired kidney function makes a rise in potassium far more likely.

When to see a doctor

See a doctor for muscle weakness, numbness or tingling, a slow or irregular heartbeat, or a fall in the amount of urine passed. Breast tenderness or swelling and menstrual changes are also worth reporting.

Worth knowing

  • Can raise potassium
  • Caution with kidney disease

Markers to watch

Nutrients affected

  • potassium — raised by (Potassium)

Reference information, not medical advice. Discuss any change with your doctor.