What are the most common side effects of spironolactone?

Drowsiness, dizziness, lightheadedness, stomach upset, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, or headache may occur. To minimize lightheadedness, get up slowly when rising from a seated or lying position. If any of these effects last or get worse, notify your doctor or pharmacist promptly.

What type of drug is spironolactone?

Spironolactone is in a class of medications called aldosterone receptor antagonists. It causes the kidneys to eliminate unneeded water and sodium from the body into the urine but reduces the loss of potassium from the body.

What is spironolactone used for and side effects?

Spironolactone (Aldactone) is an older medication that affects the kidneys and hormones. It’s still used today to treat several conditions, such as heart failure, high blood pressure, and fluid buildup. The most common side effects of spironolactone are high potassium levels and breast tenderness.

What should you avoid while taking 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).

What are the long term effects of taking spironolactone?

Diuretic effect and menstrual irregularities were the most common adverse effects. Conclusions: After 200 person-years of exposure to spironolactone and 506 person-years of followup over 8 years, no serious illnesses thought to be attributed to spironolactone were reported.

What are the benefits of taking spironolactone?

Spironolactone is used in combination with other medicines to treat high blood pressure (hypertension) and heart failure. Lowering blood pressure can reduce the risk of strokes and heart attacks. Spironolactone is also used to lessen the need for hospitalization for heart failure.

Is spironolactone a safe drug?

For a really cheap and safe medication, spironolactone has many uses. From heart health to hair growth, this popular diuretic is safe and effective.

Should you drink a lot of water when taking spironolactone?

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

How long is it safe to take spironolactone?

You would require Spironolactone for as long as your acne is a problem. Most women will be on treatment for a year or two and some women may need treatment for several years. It is possible to reduce the dose and try without medication a year into treatment after the acne has been controlled fully.

Should I drink a lot of water with spironolactone?

What is a natural alternative to spironolactone?

As she explains, “Accutane is an oral vitamin A derivative that makes oil glands smaller,” while “spironolactone is an oral androgen blocker.” Considered by some to be a more natural alternative to spironolactone, anecdotal reports show DIM to effectively decrease breakouts — albeit more gradually.

How long can you take spironolactone?

How long is a course of Spironolactone? You would require Spironolactone for as long as your acne is a problem. Most women will be on treatment for a year or two and some women may need treatment for several years.

What is the best time of day to take spironolactone?

It is best to take your dose early in the day (before 6 p.m.) to prevent having to get up during the night to urinate. Consult your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions. If you are using the liquid form of this medication, shake the bottle well before each dose.

What can I take to replace spironolactone?

If spironolactone is not an option for you, there are several other choices for treating your acne. The main alternative to spironolactone for acne is oral birth control pills, sometimes called “combined oral contraceptives.” Other treatments for acne include: Retinoids such as Retin-A and retinol.

Is there an over the counter equivalent to spironolactone?

There are no over-the-counter drugs or supplements that can effectively substitute for prescription spironolactone.

How much water should you drink while taking spironolactone?

In fact, most studies on the topic have shown that drinking 34–68 ounces (1–2 liters) of water per day can aid in weight loss. Starting your morning with water and staying well hydrated throughout the day is a great way to boost weight loss with minimal effort.

Can I take a multivitamin while on spironolactone?

Interactions between your drugs No interactions were found between Celebrate Multivitamin and spironolactone. However, this does not necessarily mean no interactions exist. Always consult your healthcare provider.