How To

Use Spironolactone

Contributor
By Wirnani Garner
eHow Contributing Writer
(1 Ratings)
Use Spironolactone
Use Spironolactone

Spironolactone is a diuretic drug that is used to treat high blood pressure--preventing the risk of heart attacks, strokes and kidney diseases. It is also used to decrease the amount of sodium and water retained in the body and reduce edema. The dosage of this drug among adult patients is based upon the severity of the medical condition and response to treatment. For children, the dosage of this drug is based on body weight. The administration of spironolactone should be properly monitored since it has a tendency to raise the body's potassium level. High potassium can lead to symptoms such as extreme muscle weakness and irregular heart beat. To avoid serious complications, apply the following guidelines on how to use spironilactone.

Difficulty: Moderate
Instructions
  1. Step 1

    Administer this drug orally as instructed by your doctor. It is advisable to take it with milk or food to reduce the possibility of experiencing an upset stomach.

  2. Step 2

    Remember to take this medication before bed time. Spironolactone may increase urination--so it is best to take it before you go to bed, in order to avoid hampering your sleep.

  3. Step 3

    Follow your physician's instructions when taking this drug. You should not increase or decrease your dosage without consulting your doctor.

  4. Step 4

    Watch your schedule. Make sure that you are not skipping a day without taking this medication. You should take it regularly as directed, and should not cease taking it even if you are starting to feel well. Allow your doctor to gradually cease your medication to prevent complications.

  5. Step 5

    Visit your doctor regularly to monitor the effects of this medication and in order to check your overall condition.

  6. Step 6

    Consult your doctor if you notice an increase in blood pressure or if you feel any unusual sensations when taking the drug.

Tips & Warnings
  • If u ever miss a dose, just wait for your next schedule and take the normal dose. Never attempt to double the dosage of this medication. Do not share this medication to others. The effectiveness if this drug may increase when administered with proper diet and exercise--talk to your doctor about this. Store this medication at room temperature below 25 degrees Celsius (77 degrees F). Avoid exposing this drug to excessive light and moisture and keep it away from the reach of children and pets. If this medication is expired or if you are no longer taking it, dispose it properly in a tight sealed container. If accidental overdose takes place, contact the US National poison hot line immediately at 1-800-222-1222.
  • Common spironolactone side effects include upset stomach, dizziness or lightheadedness, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and headache. If any of these side effects become worse or persistent, contact your doctor right away. Other rare but serious side effects include muscle spasm, muscle weakness, unusual mood changes, extreme fatigue, sexual dysfunction, irregular menstruation, breast enlargement in men, dark urine and jaundice (yellow discoloration of the eyes and skin). Allergic reactions to spironolactone drug are skin itchiness, rashes, swelling, severe dizziness and breathing difficulties.

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