ALDACTONE 100 TABLET

💧💊 Spironolactone 100mg Tablet: A Potent Potassium-Sparing Diuretic and Aldosterone Antagonist

Spironolactone 100mg is a high-strength potassium-sparing diuretic and aldosterone antagonist used to manage conditions related to fluid retention, hormone imbalance, and high blood pressure. It acts primarily on the kidneys to promote the excretion of sodium and water while retaining potassium, making it especially useful in patients at risk of low potassium levels. Spironolactone also has anti-androgenic properties, making it effective in treating acne, hirsutism, and hormonal disorders.

🔬 Mechanism of Action

Spironolactone works by blocking aldosterone receptors in the distal nephron of the kidneys. Aldosterone is a hormone that promotes sodium and water retention and potassium excretion. By inhibiting its action, Spironolactone:

• Increases sodium and water excretion

• Reduces potassium loss

• Lowers blood volume and pressure

• Exerts anti-fibrotic effects on the heart and kidneys

It also weakly blocks androgen receptors, which helps reduce testosterone-related effects such as excessive hair growth and acne.

📌 Indications and Uses

Spironolactone 100mg is prescribed for:

• Edema associated with:

  • Congestive heart failure

  • Liver cirrhosis

  • Nephrotic syndrome

• Hypertension (especially resistant or secondary hypertension)

• Primary hyperaldosteronism

  • Diagnostic use (short-term)

  • Long-term management when surgery is not suitable

• Heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF) – reduces hospitalization and mortality (as part of guideline-directed medical therapy)

• Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) – for hirsutism and acne (off-label)

• Acne and hormonal acne (off-label)

• Female pattern hair loss (off-label)

💊 Dosage and Administration

• Typical adult dose: 25–100mg per day, depending on the condition.

• 100mg dose is considered high and is generally used in:

  • Severe edema or ascites

  • Diagnosed hyperaldosteronism

• May be taken once daily or in divided doses.

• Best taken with food to reduce gastrointestinal upset and improve absorption.

Regular monitoring is essential, especially when using the 100mg strength.

⚠️ Precautions and Warnings

• Monitor potassium levels to avoid hyperkalemia (high blood potassium)

• Use cautiously in:

  • Kidney disease

  • Diabetes mellitus

  • Patients taking ACE inhibitors, ARBs, or NSAIDs

• Not recommended during pregnancy or lactation unless prescribed

• Avoid potassium supplements unless directed by a doctor

🤒 Side Effects

Common side effects:

• Nausea, vomiting

• Headache, dizziness

• Breast tenderness or enlargement (gynecomastia)

• Menstrual irregularities

• Fatigue

Serious but rare:

• Hyperkalemia – may cause muscle weakness, arrhythmias

• Hyponatremia (low sodium)

• Renal impairment

• Severe allergic reactions (rash, itching, breathing difficulty)

Seek immediate care if signs of electrolyte imbalance or allergic reaction appear.

🔄 Drug Interactions

• Increased risk of hyperkalemia with:

  • ACE inhibitors, ARBs

  • Potassium supplements or salt substitutes

• Can affect digoxin and lithium levels

• Avoid alcohol and NSAIDs as they may reduce diuretic effect

🧊 Storage Instructions

• Store at room temperature (15–30°C)

• Keep in a dry place, away from moisture

• Keep out of reach of children

📝 Conclusion

Spironolactone 100mg is a powerful and versatile medication for treating fluid retention, hormonal imbalances, and high blood pressure. Its potassium-sparing action makes it a preferred option in patients where hypokalemia is a concern. Due to its potent nature, careful monitoring and dose adjustments are essential for safe and effective use.