Spironolactone Drug Flashcards

What kind of drug is Spironolactone (Aldactone)?

What is the drug class of Spironolactone (Aldactone)?

What are contraindications or reasons not to take Spironolactone (Aldactone)?

Caution when taking Spironolactone (Aldactone) with which conditions?

What are drug lab food interactions when taking Spironolactone (Aldactone)?

What are the therapeutic reasons for taking Spironolactone (Aldactone)?

What are side effects of Spironolactone (Aldactone)?

What are adverse reactions of Spironolactone (Aldactone)?

What does Spironolactone (Aldactone) do?

What happens when a potassium sparing diuretic like Spironolactone (Aldactone) is taken with ACE inhibitor?

Observe for signs and symptoms of what when taking potassium sparing diuretic?

What is Spironolactone's half-life and why is that important to know?

Drug Overview

Spironolactone is a potassium-sparing diuretic, indicated commonly under the trade name Aldactone.
It has a therapeutic duration of 2-3 days or longer.

Contraindications

Not to be used in patients with severe kidney or liver disease, anuria, or severe hyperkalemia.

Cautions

Exercise caution in individuals with kidney or liver dysfunction and diabetes.

Drug Interactions

Potassium supplements can increase potassium levels when taken with Spironolactone.
Effects of antihypertensives and lithium may be amplified.
Concomitant use with ACE inhibitors can lead to life-threatening hyperkalemia, particularly in patients with existing hyperkalemia.

Therapeutic Uses

Utilized to increase urine output and manage fluid retention linked to heart failure, liver cirrhosis, or nephrotic syndrome.

Side Effects

Common side effects include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, dizziness, headaches, weakness, dry mouth, and photosensitivity.

Adverse Reactions

Life-threatening conditions associated with Spironolactone include severe hyperkalemia, thrombocytopenia, and megaloblastic anemia.

Mechanism of Action

Spironolactone retains potassium while excreting sodium, making it beneficial for patients with cardiac disorders.
It helps regulate heart rate and reduces myocardial fibrosis, although its effects can take up to 48 hours.

Dosage Considerations

Recommended to be administered once daily or sometimes twice due to its half-life of 1.5-2 hours.
Longer duration allows for sustained therapeutic effects.

Monitoring for Side Effects

Monitor for signs and symptoms of hyperkalemia (potassium levels >5.3 mEq), which include nausea, diarrhea, abdominal cramps, numbness, tingling, leg cramps, tachycardia, bradycardia, or oliguria.

Test your knowledge on Spironolactone (Aldactone) with these flashcards. Learn about its classification, uses, and contraindications. Ideal for pharmacy students or healthcare professionals wanting to review key concepts of this potassium-sparing diuretic.