what does spironolactone do to potassium

Precautions

Tips

• May be taken with or without food. ...
• Tell your doctor if you experience any intolerable side effects, such as excessive thirst, drowsiness, muscle pains or cramps, and in men, enlarged breasts.
• Avoid taking salt substitutes that contain potassium or potassium supplements while taking spironolactone. ...

More items...

What should you not take with spironolactone?

Common Side Effects of Spironolactone. Vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach pain or cramps. Dry mouth and thirst. Dizziness, unsteadiness, and headache. Gynecomastia (enlarged breast tissue) in men, and breast pain in women. Irregular menstrual periods and post-menopausal vaginal bleeding.

What are the Common side effects of spironolactone?

The most common serious side effect of spironolactone is a high level of potassium in the blood. This is called hyperkalemia. If it is very high, it can cause heart rhythm problems. Dangerous levels can happen in 1% to 12% of people taking spironolactone.

Is spironolactone a dangerous drug?

Taking certain cholesterol drugs with spironolactone can increase the amount of potassium and acid in your body to unsafe levels. Examples of these drugs include: cholestyramine Lithium Taking...

Does spironolactone increase potassium levels?

Should I avoid potassium on spironolactone?

Since spironolactone is a potassium-sparing diuretic, you should avoid taking potassium in your supplements or sports drinks and avoid eating too many high potassium foods such as papaya, cantaloupe, prune juice, honeydew melons, bananas, raisins, mangoes, kiwis, oranges, orange juice, tomatoes, tomato juice, white and ...

How much does spironolactone raise potassium?

Spironolactone caused a highly significant increase in the potassium level of 0.5 +/-0.5 mmol/L (p <0.0001) in the entire study population (Table 2). The change in potassium was similar irrespective of the indication for which it was used. The highest potassium recorded in the population was 5.2 mmol/L.

What happens if I have too much potassium on spironolactone?

Severe hyperkalemia: Spironolactone reduces the body's elimination of potassium, causing blood potassium levels to rise. Potassium levels that are too high (hyperkalemia) can affect the heart, leading to irregular heartbeats (arrhythmias) and, in severe cases, heart attack.

At what potassium level does spironolactone stop?

Spironolactone was stopped due to hyperkalemia (persistent potassium level, ≥5.5 mmol/L) less frequently with patiromer than with placebo (7% vs. 23%).

What is a major side effect of spironolactone?

Check with your doctor right away if you have the following symptoms: stomach pain, confusion, difficulty with breathing, irregular heartbeat, nausea or vomiting, nervousness, numbness or tingling in the hands, feet, or lips, or weakness or heaviness of the legs.

Should I drink a lot of water with spironolactone?

Be sure to drink adequate water while taking spironolactone. Watch for signs of dehydration, including: excessive thirst. infrequent urination.

Can I eat bananas with spironolactone?

Avoid taking salt substitutes that contain potassium or potassium supplements while taking spironolactone. Try to avoid foods high in potassium (such as avocados, bananas, coconut water, spinach, and sweet potato) because eating these foods may lead to potentially fatal hyperkalemia (high blood potassium levels).

When should I check my potassium after taking spironolactone?

Your doctor will typically check your potassium level in the week after you start treatment with spironolactone. And they'll check your level after any dose increases. You'll also have blood tests to check your potassium level on a regular basis while you're taking spironolactone.

What are the symptoms of high potassium levels?

If hyperkalemia comes on suddenly and you have very high levels of potassium, you may feel heart palpitations, shortness of breath, chest pain, nausea, or vomiting. Sudden or severe hyperkalemia is a life-threatening condition. It requires immediate medical care.

What drugs should not be taken with spironolactone?

Taking certain pain drugs with spironolactone can result in kidney damage and increased blood pressure....nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as:diclofenac.ibuprofen.indomethacin.ketoprofen.ketorolac.meloxicam.nabumetone.naproxen.More items...

How many mg of potassium is spironolactone per day?

Spironolactone dosage for diuretic-induced hypokalemia Serum potassium less than or equal to 5 mEq/L is an indication for using spironolactone over another diuretic. A typical dose of spironolactone for diuretic-induced hypokalemia is 25 to 100 mg spread out over one to four doses throughout the day.

Is 25 mg of spironolactone high?

The starting dose for spironolactone should be 25mg daily in a single dose; the lowest effective dose should be found, very gradually titrating upwards to a dose of 100mg daily or more. Usual dose is 100-200mg/day. Spironolactone has not been shown to be anti-inflammatory, nor to affect the basic pathological process.

Can 50 mg spironolactone cause hyperkalemia?

ALDACTONE can cause hyperkalemia. This risk is increased by impaired renal function or concomitant potassium...

Is 100mg of spironolactone too much?

Adults—At first, 25 to 100 milligrams (mg) per day, taken in either single or divided doses. Your doctor may adjust your dose as needed. However, the dose is usually not more than 100 mg per day.

Is 25 mg of spironolactone high?

The starting dose for spironolactone should be 25mg daily in a single dose; the lowest effective dose should be found, very gradually titrating upwards to a dose of 100mg daily or more. Usual dose is 100-200mg/day. Spironolactone has not been shown to be anti-inflammatory, nor to affect the basic pathological process.

Can I eat bananas with spironolactone?

Avoid taking salt substitutes that contain potassium or potassium supplements while taking spironolactone. Try to avoid foods high in potassium (such as avocados, bananas, coconut water, spinach, and sweet potato) because eating these foods may lead to potentially fatal hyperkalemia (high blood potassium levels).

Before Taking This Medicine

You should not use spironolactone if you are allergic to it, or if you have: 1. Addison's disease (an adrenal gland disorder); 2. high levels of po...

How Should I Take Spironolactone?

Take spironolactone exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Follow all directions on your prescription label. Your doctor may occasionally change you...

What Happens If I Miss A Dose?

Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. Skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose. Do not take extra medicine to...

What Should I Avoid While Taking Spironolactone?

Drinking alcohol can increase certain side effects of spironolactone.See also: Spironolactone and alcohol (in more detail)Do not use salt substitut...

Spironolactone Side Effects

Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction to spironolactone: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, t...

Spironolactone Dosing Information

Usual Adult Dose for Edema:25 to 200 mg orally per day in single or divided dosesDuration of therapy: When given as the sole diuretic, continue the...

What Other Drugs Will Affect Spironolactone?

Taking this medicine with other drugs that make you dizzy or lower your blood pressure can worsen these effects. Ask your doctor before taking a sl...

What is spironolactone?

Spironolactone is a potassium-sparing diuretic (water pill) that prevents your body from absorbing too much salt and keeps your potassium levels from getting too low .

What other drugs will affect spironolactone?

Using spironolactone with other drugs that make you dizzy can worsen this effect. Ask your doctor before using opioid medication , a sleeping pill, a muscle relaxer, or medicine for anxiety, depression, or seizures.

How long does a diuretic last?

Duration of therapy: When given as the sole diuretic, continue the initial dose for at least 5 days, after which the initial dose may be adjusted to an optimal maintenance dose.Comments:-A second diuretic that acts more proximally at the renal tubule may be added if adequate diuresis has not been achieved after 5 days.

What is digitalis used for?

Uses:-Treatment of patients with hypokalemia when other measures are considered inappropriate or inadequate.-Prophy laxis of hypokalemia in patients taking digitalis when other measures are considered inadequate or inappropriate.

What is the phone number for poisoning?

Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222.

What happens if you are allergic to spironolactone?

Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction to spironolactone: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Is spironolactone safe for pregnant women?

To make sure spironolactone is safe for you, tell your doctor if you have: an electrolyte imbalance (such as low levels of calcium, magnesium, or sodium in your blood); kidney disease; liver disease; or. heart disease. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant.

What is spironolactone?from drugs.com

Spironolactone is a potassium-sparing diuretic (water pill) that prevents your body from absorbing too much salt and keeps your potassium levels from getting too low .

What other drugs will affect spironolactone?from drugs.com

Using spironolactone with other drugs that make you dizzy can worsen this effect. Ask your doctor before using opioid medication , a sleeping pill, a muscle relaxer, or medicine for anxiety, depression, or seizures.

How does aldosterone work?from healthline.com

This drug works by blocking aldosterone activity. Aldosterone is a chemical made by the body that can cause water retention. This makes certain heart, kidney, and liver conditions worse. By blocking aldosterone, your body won’t retain fluid. This process also stops potassium from being excreted by your body.

What to do if you miss a dose of a sulfate?from healthline.com

What to do if you miss a dose: If you forget to take your dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it’s just a few hours before the time for your next dose, then wait and only take one dose at that time. Never try to catch up by taking two doses at once. This could cause dangerous side effects.

How long does a diuretic last?from drugs.com

Duration of therapy: When given as the sole diuretic, continue the initial dose for at least 5 days, after which the initial dose may be adjusted to an optimal maintenance dose.Comments:-A second diuretic that acts more proximally at the renal tubule may be added if adequate diuresis has not been achieved after 5 days.

What is the class of drugs that block aldosterone?from healthline.com

This drug belongs to a class of drugs called aldosterone antagonists (blockers), or potassium-sparing diuretics. A class of drugs is a group of medications that work in a similar way. These drugs are often used to treat similar conditions. This drug works by blocking aldosterone activity.

What is digitalis used for?from drugs.com

Uses:-Treatment of patients with hypokalemia when other measures are considered inappropriate or inadequate.-Prophy laxis of hypokalemia in patients taking digitalis when other measures are considered inadequate or inappropriate.

How does spironolactone affect the kidneys?

Spironolactone inhibits the action of aldosterone by binding to specific receptors in the kidney where aldosterone controls the balance of salt and water in the body. Blocking aldosterone increases the excretion of sodium and other salts through the kidney into the urine. As these salts leave the body, water is also drawn alongside. Through this mechanism, spironolactone removes excess fluid from the body and also has a blood pressure lowering effect.

What is spironolactone used for?

It is also used for the diagnosis and management of primary hyperaldosteronism (a condition where the adrenal glands produce too much of the hormone aldosterone leading to low potassium levels and a more alkaline blood pH).

What is the purpose of lowering blood pressure?

May be used in the diagnosis or treatment of primary hyperaldosteronism (a hormonal disorder characterized by over-production of aldosterone that leads to high blood pressure).

How long does spironolactone last?

The effects of one dose of spironolactone usually last for 24 hours. 7. Interactions. Medicines that interact with spironolactone may either decrease its effect, affect how long it works for, increase side effects, or have less of an effect when taken with spironolactone.

What is the use of a syringe?

May be used in the treatment of high blood pressure (hypertension) in conjunction with other medications and lifestyle measures (such as lipid control, diabetes management, smoking cessation, blood thinning medications, exercise and a reduction in sodium intake).

What are the side effects of taking spironolactone?

Downsides. If you are between the ages of 18 and 60, take no other medication or have no other medical conditions, side effects you are more likely to experience include: Gynecomastia (enlargement of a man's breasts) is reported by approximately 13% of men who take spironolactone.

Can you drive with spironolactone?

Try to avoid foods high in potassium (such as avocados, bananas, coconut water, spinach, and sweet potato) because eating these foods may lead to potentially fatal hyperkalemia (high blood potassium levels). Do not drive or operate machinery if spironolactone makes you drowsy or impairs your judgment.

How much does potassium drop in dermatology?

And the amount of dermatologists who would always monitor potassium levels likewise dropped from 10.6% to 4.2%.

Which professions are most likely to monitor potassium levels?

On the other hand, advanced practice clinicians, such as nurse practitioners and physician assistants, were overwhelmingly the most likely to monitor potassium levels, with the percentage actually increasing from 71.4% to 75.4% during this time period.

Does spironolactone lower aldosterone?

Concerns of hyperkalemia once circled with the use of spironolactone -- a potassium-sparing diuretic that also lowers levels of the hormone aldosterone -- subsequent data, however, have shown little benefit to monitoring levels in otherwise healthy young women.

Who is Kristen Monaco?

Kristen Monaco is a staff writer, focusing on endocrinology, psychiatry, and dermatology news. Based out of the New York City office, she’s worked at the company for nearly five years.

Can you monitor potassium levels for acne?

Because of this, several guidelines, including those from the American Academy of Dermatology, now suggest eliminating the practice of monitoring potass ium levels in healthy young women being treated for acne.

What Is Spironolactone?

Spironolactone is a prescription medication that’s used to treat a wide range of diseases and health conditions.

How does spironolactone work?

Spironolactone works by blocking the action of a hormone called aldosterone, which is used by the body to retain water and sodium. Aldosterone is produced in the adrenal glands. People with high blood pressure, low potassium levels and other health conditions often have overly high levels of aldosterone.

Why is testosterone important for women?

As a woman, testosterone also plays an important role in maintaining well-being, cardiovascular function, bone strength and influencing pain perception.

How many mg is spironolactone?

Spironolactone typically comes in tablet form at strengths of 25, 50 or 100mg per tablet. It’s also available as an oral solution. Carefully check the strength of your spironolactone tablets and use them as prescribed by your healthcare provider.

What is the best medication for acne?

If you’ve searched online for products to treat acne, you may have heard of a medication called spironolactone.

What is it called when the body produces too much aldosterone?

Hyperaldosteronism (a condition in which the body produces too much of the hormone aldosterone)

Does spironolactone affect pregnancy?

Spironolactone and Pregnancy. Spironolactone has a category C rating from the FDA, meaning that animal studies have found that it may have adverse effects on the fetus. Although there isn’t enough human data to make any certain statements, this medication may have negative effects on the genitalia of a male fetus.

What is rare if you have hyperkalemia?from drugs.com

Rare (less than 0.1%): Paralysis, paraplegia of the limbs due to hyperkalemia

What are the side effects of a syringe?from drugs.com

loss in sexual ability, desire, drive, or performance. pain in the nipples. sores, welts, or blisters. stomach upset. swelling of the breasts or breast soreness in both females and males. unusual dullness or feeling of sluggishness. Managing side effects (general information)

What are the symptoms of breast cancer?from drugs.com

redness or swelling of the breast. seizures. severe stomach pain. shakiness and unsteady walk. sore on the skin of the breast that does not heal. sore throat. sores, ulcers, or white spots on the lips or in the mouth. stomach cramping, burning, or tenderness. swelling of the face, fingers, feet, ankles, or lower legs.

What causes redness in the nipple?from drugs.com

muscle spasms or twitching. nausea. painful or difficult urination. persistent crusting or scaling of the nipple. pinpoint red spots on the skin. puffiness or swelling of the eyelids or around the eyes, face, lips, or tongue. redness or swelling of the breast. seizures. severe stomach pain.

What is Stevens Johnson syndrome?from webmd.com

a skin disorder with blistering and peeling skin called Stevens-Johnson syndrome. trouble breathing. high amount of uric acid in the blood. high blood sugar. a significant type of allergic reaction called anaphylaxis.

What does it mean when you have difficulty swallowing?from drugs.com

difficulty with swallowing. dimpling of the breast skin. dizziness. dizziness, faintness, or lightheadedness when getting up suddenly from a lying or sitting position. drowsiness. fast or irregular heartbeat . fever with or without chills.

What are the symptoms of overdose on spironolactone?from drugs.com

Get emergency help immediately if any of the following symptoms of overdose occur while taking spironolactone: Symptoms of overdose. Irregular heartbeat. nervousness. numbness or tingling in the hands, feet, or lips. rash with flat lesions or small raised lesions on the skin. reddened skin.

What is spironolactone used for?

Spironolactone is also used to diagnose and treat hyperaldosteronism, a condition in which the adrenal gland produces too much hormone called aldosterone. This medicine may also be used to treat fluid retention (edema) in patients with congestive heart failure, liver cirrhosis, or a kidney disorder called nephrotic syndrome.

How to measure oral liquid?

Shake the oral liquid well before each use. Measure it with a marked measuring spoon, oral syringe, or medicine cup.

Is spironolactone safe for children?

Appropriate studies have not been performed on the relationship of age to the effects of spironolactone in the pediatric population. Safety and efficacy have not been established.

Can you take a med with both meds?

Using this medicine with any of the following medicines may cause an increased risk of certain side effects, but using both drugs may be the best treatment for you. If both medicines are prescribed together, your doctor may change the dose or how often you use one or both of the medicines.

Can you take a medicine with food?

Certain medicines should not be used at or around the time of eating food or eating certain types of food since interactions may occur. Using alcohol or tobacco with certain medicines may also cause interactions to occur. Discuss with your healthcare professional the use of your medicine with food, alcohol, or tobacco.

Can you take two different medicines at the same time?

Although certain medicines should not be used together at all, in other cases two different medicines may be used together even if an interaction might occur. In these cases, your doctor may want to change the dose, or other precautions may be necessary. When you are taking this medicine, it is especially important that your healthcare professional know if you are taking any of the medicines listed below. The following interactions have been selected on the basis of their potential significance and are not necessarily all-inclusive.

What is Potassium chloride?

Potassium chloride has active ingredients of potassium chloride. It is often used in hypokalemia. eHealthMe is studying from 5,574 Potassium chloride users for its effectiveness, alternative drugs and more.

What is Spironolactone?

Spironolactone has active ingredients of spironolactone. It is often used in acne. eHealthMe is studying from 91,274 Spironolactone users for its effectiveness, alternative drugs and more.

How the study uses the data?

It is based on potassium chloride and spironolactone (the active ingredients of Potassium chloride and Spironolactone, respectively), and Potassium chloride and Spironolactone (the brand names). Other drugs that have the same active ingredients (e.g. generic drugs) are not considered. Dosage of drugs is not considered in the study.

What is eHealthme phase IV?

With medical big data and AI algorithms, eHealthMe enables everyone to run phase IV clinical trial to detect adverse drug outcomes and monitor effectiveness. Our original studies have been referenced on 600+ peer-reviewed medical publications including The Lancet, Mayo Clinic Proceedings, and Nature. Most recently, phase IV clinial trails for COVID 19 vaccines have been added.

What is phase IV study?

The phase IV clinical study analyzes what interactions people who take Potassium chloride and Spironolactone have. It is created by eHealthMe based on reports of 323 people who take Potassium chloride and Spironolactone from the FDA, and is updated regularly. You can use the study as a second opinion to make health care decisions.

Can you discuss a study with your doctor?

You can discuss the study with your doctor, to ensure that all drug risks and benefits are fully discussed and understood.

What Is Blood Pressure and Why Does It Matter?

Blood pressure is a measure of the force exerted on the walls of arteries and veins as a result of blood being forced throughout your body.

What Is Spironolactone?

Spironolactone is a medication that can help with high blood pressure, edema, low potassium levels, and more.

The Takeaway

Blood pressure is an important aspect of your overall health and wellbeing, and spironolactone is one of many potential treatments to help get your blood pressure under control if you have hypertension. Spironolactone acts as a diuretic to decrease blood volume and help establish healthy blood pressure when used at the proper dose.

Sources

How to treat high blood pressure without ruining your sex life | European Society of Cardiology

How It Works

Upsides

Downsides

Bottom Line

Tips

Response and Effectiveness

Interactions

References

• Spironolactone is a diuretic that may be used to remove excess fluid (edema) from the body, lower blood pressure, or treat hyperaldosteronism. It does not cause potassium loss from the body; however, other electrolytes may become depleted.

See more on drugs.com

Further Information