ALDACTONE

Who is Aldactone for ?

Spironolactone, a "water pill," is used to treat high blood pressure and fluid retention caused by various conditions, including heart disease. It causes the kidneys to eliminate unneeded water and salt from the body into the urine. Spironolactone also is used to treat certain patients with hyperaldosteronism and in certain patients with low potassium levels. This medicine is sometimes prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.

Spironolactone also is used in combination with other medicines to treat precocious puberty or myasthenia gravis. Spironolactone also may be used to treat certain female patients with abnormal facial hair. Talk to your doctor about the possible risks of using this medicine for your condition.

When should I be careful taking Aldactone ?

Spironolactone has caused tumors in laboratory animals. It is not known if spironalactone causes tumors in humans. Talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits of using this medicine for your condition.

Before taking spironolactone,

• tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to spironolactone, sulfa drugs, or any other drugs.
• tell your doctor and pharmacist what prescription and nonprescription medications you are taking, especially aspirin; captopril (Aldactonen); digoxin (Lanoxin); enalapril (Vasotec); lisinopril (Prinivil, Zestril); lithium (Eskalith, Lithobid); medications for arthritis, diabetes, or high blood pressure; potassium supplements; and vitamins. Do not take this medicine if you are taking amiloride or triamterene.
• tell your doctor if you have or have ever had diabetes, gout, or kidney or liver disease.
• tell your doctor if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding. If you become pregnant while taking spironolactone, call your doctor immediately.
• if you are having surgery, including dental surgery, tell the doctor or dentist that you are taking spironolactone.
• you should know that this drug may make you drowsy. Do not drive a car or operate machinery until you know how this drug affects you.
• remember that alcohol can add to the drowsiness caused by this drug.

What side effects should I watch for ?

Although side effects from spironolactone are not common, they can occur. Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go away:

• upset stomach
• vomiting
• diarrhea
• stomach pain
• frequent urination
• dizziness
• headache
• enlarged or painful breasts
• irregular menstrual periods
• drowsiness

If you experience any of the following symptoms, call your doctor immediately:

• muscle weakness or cramps
• rapid, excessive weight loss
• fatigue
• slow or irregular heartbeat
• sore throat
• unusual bruising or bleeding
• yellowing of the skin or eyes
• skin rash
• vomiting blood
• fever
• confusion