ALDACTONE: THE WATER PILL THAT KEEPS SALT AND FLUIDS AT BAY

Aldactone (Spironolactone) is a water pill or diuretic that makes the body lose excess salt and water but reduces the loss of potassium.  It is used to treat a wide range of maladies that results in fluid retention or insufficient potassium.  Some examples include:  edema that occurs with congestive heart failure, high blood pressure, cirrhosis of the liver, nephorotic syndrome, primary hyperaldosteronism where too much aldosterone is produced by the adrenal glands, and hypokalemia where there’s too little potassium in the body.

Aldactone may also be used for other conditions not mentioned earlier, and this medication may not also be used for the ones discussed. But if you are taking this medication, do not stop without consulting your doctor. This medication may be harmful to those who are not prescribed by their doctors; so don’t give this to others even if they have the same symptoms as yours.

Aldactone dosage for adults range from 25mg to 400 mg daily depending on the condition but for children, the daily dose is based on body weight. Since urine output increases when taking this medication, it is best to take it early in the day.  Aldactone may be taken with or without food, but should stomach pain occur then take it with food.

Factors such as body weight, medical conditions or other medications, affect the dose of medication a person needs.  Remember to always consult a doctor before you decide to change the way you are taking these MEDs.

If a dose was missed, take one right away and continue with the regular schedule.  For whatever reason, do not take a double dose if you missed one.  Should you be confused on what should be done when you miss one, always consult a doctor. 

Importantly, continue taking this medication even if you start to feel well. Remember that people with high blood pressure do not feel sick.  Your condition may get worse if you suddenly stop taking this medication.

To store aldactone at room temperature, keep it in a dry place away from heat and moisture.  As with most medications, keep it out of reach of young children.  Contact a pharmacist for advice on how to dispose of medications that have expired or are no longer needed.

Aside from being a potassium-sparing diuretic, Aldactone may also be used to treat hirsutism or excessive hair growth in women with polycystic ovary disease.