Download PATIENT`S NAME: MEDICATION: spironolactone (Brand names

PATIENT’S NAME:
MEDICATION: spironolactone (Brand names include Aldactone and Novo-spiroton.)
WHAT IT’S USED FOR: Spironolactone is used to treat swelling caused by heart failure, liver cirrhosis,
and nephrotic syndrome (a kidney disease); hypertension; and low potassium levels. It’s also used in
the diagnosis and treatment of primary hyperaldosteronism (excessive secretion of a certain type of
hormone).
HOW TO TAKE IT
§ Take your daily dose with breakfast. If two daily doses are prescribed, take the second dose with
food in mid-afternoon.
WARNINGS & PRECAUTIONS!
§ Tell you prescriber if you have urinary problems, liver disease, or diabetes mellitus.
§ Be aware that this drug may cause your body to retain potassium. Watch for signs and symptoms of
too much potassium (exaggerated reflexes, rapid heart rate, nausea, diarrhea, and abdominal
cramps), and report these to prescriber immediately.
§ Watch your weight and fluid intake and output. Report weight loss to your prescriber.
§ Know that this drug may cause breast enlargement.
§ Avoid driving and other hazardous activities until you know how the drug affects your concentration
and alertness.
§ Tell your prescriber if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
SIDE EFFECTS
This drug may cause headache, drowsiness, lethargy, staggering when walking, confusion, vomiting,
diarrhea, cramping, gastritis, gastrointestinal ulcers or bleeding, enlarged breasts, irregular menses or
lack of menses, postmenopausal bleeding, erectile dysfunction, breast cancer, serious blood disorders,
electrolyte imbalances (including too much potassium), rash, itching, increased body hair, deepening of
voice, and drug fever. Notify your prescriber of serious or bothersome symptoms.
INTERACTIONS
§ Spironolactone may interact with other drugs, including other drugs used to treat high blood
pressure, other diuretics (“water pills”), potassium supplements, other potassium-containing drugs,
blood thinners, digoxin, and salicylates (including aspirin). Tell all prescribers that you are taking it.
§ Don’t take herbs (including licorice) without consulting your prescriber.
§ Restrict intake of high-potassium foods (such as seafood, bananas, peaches, peanuts, raisins, and
molasses) and avoid salt substitutes containing potassium while taking this drug.
STORAGE
§ Store drug below 77 o F (25o C).
ADDITIONAL POINTS:
Your initials: ______________
Date: ______________
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