Spironolactone Drug Flashcards

Questions and Answers

What kind of drug is Spironolactone (Aldactone)?

Osmotic Diuretic

Potassium Sparing Diuretic (correct)

Loop Diuretic

Thiazide Diuretic

What is the drug class of Spironolactone (Aldactone)?

Potassium sparing diuretic

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

Severe kidney or liver disease, anuria, severe hyperkalemia

Caution when taking Spironolactone (Aldactone) with which conditions?

Kidney or liver dysfunction, diabetes Signup and view all the answers

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

Increases potassium level with potassium supplements, increases effects of antihypertensives and lithium, life-threatening if patient has hyperkalemia and given with ACE inhibitor. Signup and view all the answers

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

To increase urine output, to treat fluid retention or overload associated with heart failure, liver cirrhosis, or nephrotic syndrome Signup and view all the answers

What are side effects of Spironolactone (Aldactone)?

Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, dizziness, headache, weakness, dry mouth, photosensitivity Signup and view all the answers

What are adverse reactions of Spironolactone (Aldactone)?

Life-threatening: severe hyperkalemia, thrombocytopenia (low platelet count), megaloblastic anemia (large RBC's) Signup and view all the answers

What does Spironolactone (Aldactone) do?

Retains potassium and excretes sodium. Prescribed for patients with cardiac disorders because of its potassium retaining effects. Signup and view all the answers

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

The results are life-threatening causing hyperkalemia. Signup and view all the answers

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

Hyperkalemia (>5.3 mEq) including nausea, diarrhea, abdominal cramps, numbness and tingling of hands and feet, leg cramps, tachycardia, and later bradycardia, or oliguria Signup and view all the answers

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

Half-life 1.5-2 h; it should only be administered once a day, sometimes twice. Duration is 2-3 days or longer. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

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.

Description

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.