Aldactone is used for the treatment of edema (swelling) and hypertension (high blood pressure). In some cases it relieves the symptoms of potassium deficiency and hyperaldosteronism (a hormonal disorder). Aldactone belongs to the category of drugs known as potassium-sparing diuretics (also called water pills).

Aldactone reduces bodily fluid amounts without decreasing potassium content in the blood.Aldactone is administered orally in the form of tablets. The recommended dosage is once or twice daily with food. Follow strictly prescription instructions and seek explanation from your doctor or pharmacist in case the instructions are unclear to you. Do not overdose or take Aldactone more or less frequently than directed. Aldactone helps control high blood pressure but should not be used for the treatment of its causes. Even if your condition improves, continue the treatment with Aldactone. Do not terminate the treatment without consulting your doctor first.

Warnings Precautions

If you have kidney or liver disease; diabetes mellitus; high blood levels of potassium or if you are taking a potassium supplement or an angiotensin-converting-enzyme inhibitor (ACE inhibitor), consult your doctor before beginning treatment with Aldactone. Dosage adjustment or special monitoring during treatment may be required if you suffer from any of the above-listed conditions and in some cases treatment with Aldactone might not be allowed at all. Aldactone is in the D FDA pregnancy category, meaning that it has a harmful effect on the fetus. It is unclear whether Aldectone is passed onto breast milk. If you are pregnant or breast-feeding, do not take Aldectone before consulting your doctor first.

Missing a Dose

In case of missing a dose, take it as soon as you remember. Skip the missed dose and resume your regular schedule if it is almost time for your next dose. Never take two doses at the same time.

Possible Side Effects

Some of the serious side effects of Aldactone include: an allergic reaction (difficulty in breathing; throat congestion; swelling of the lips, tongue, or face; or hives); an irregular heartbeat, shortness of breath, fatigue, confusion, weakness, numbness, or tingling (caused by high potassium levels in the blood); or decreased urination. If you experience any of these side effects, discontinue the treatment with Aldactone and seek medical help immediately. Other less serious side effects like unusual headaches or dizziness; nausea, diarrhea, or a decrease in appetite; dry mouth; bloating; muscle cramps; or voice alterations, excessive hair growth, or enlarged breasts are more likely to occur. In such cases, continue the treatment and consult your doctor. If you experience any symptoms that appear unusual or are particularly irritating, consult your doctor as these may be side effects other than the ones listed above.

Storage

Store Aldactone in its original container. Keep it tightly closed and out of reach of children. Store at room temperature and protect from excess heat and moisture. Dispose of the medicine if it is beyond the expiry date or the treatment has been terminated. Consult your doctor as to proper disposal of this medicine.

Overdose

Drowsiness, mental confusion, nausea, vomiting, dizziness and diarrhea are among the symptoms of an Aldactone overdose. If you experience any of these symptoms, seek medical help immediately.

More Information

Consult your doctor about possible side effects caused by the treatment with Aldactone. Combined with other medicines, Aldactone is used for the treatment of precocious puberty or myasthenia gravis and, in some cases, of female patients with excessive facial hair.

Aldactone resources:
http://www.rxlist.com/cgi/generic/spiron.htm
http://www.med.umich.edu/1libr/chheart/meds01.htm
http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/druginfo/medmaster/a682627.html

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