Mechanisms of Action
Spironolactone belongs to this drug class.
Potassium-sparing Diuretic
(aldosterone antagonist)
Spironolactone is commonly given to treat high blood pressure, also called this.
hypertension
This life-threatening electrolyte imbalance is the most serious risk of spironolactone.
What is hyperkalemia
Patients should avoid these supplements and salt substitutes while on spironolactone
What are potassium supplements and potassium-based salt substitutes
Spironolactone is classified as this type of diuretic.
What is a potassium-sparing diuretic
Spironolactone works by blocking this hormone in the distal nephron.
aldosterone
Doctors prescribe spironolactone to reduce swelling, also known as this.
edema
Patients should avoid potassium supplements and salt substitutes because of this risk.
What is increased potassium leading to arrhythmias
Instead of high-potassium foods like bananas and oranges, patients should focus on this type of diet.
What is a low-potassium diet
Besides diuresis, spironolactone is also used off-label for this common skin condition.
What is acne (especially hormonal acne)
The therapeutic effect of any diuretic is to reduce this symptom caused by fluid overload.
edema (or swelling)
This heart condition, where the heart doesn’t pump well, is treated with spironolactone.
heart failure
Besides potassium, spironolactone may also lower this electrolyte, causing confusion and seizures.
What is sodium (hyponatremia)
Spironolactone is best taken with this to decrease GI upset.
What is food
Spironolactone works by blocking this hormone, often called the “salt-retaining” hormone.
What is aldosterone
By blocking sodium reabsorption, this ion is retained, which may cause toxicity.
K+
spironolactone is often used in liver disease to treat this fluid buildup in the belly.
ascites
Women may experience these two menstrual changes while on spironolactone.
What are amenorrhea and irregular bleeding
Patients should rise slowly from sitting or lying positions to prevent this.
What is orthostatic hypotension
Spironolactone has been nicknamed a “water pill,” but unlike furosemide, it conserves this electrolyte.
What is potassium
The official “action” of spironolactone is described as this type of receptor antagonist.
aldosterone receptor antagonist
Women may also take spironolactone to help with this skin problem.
acne
Spironolactone should be avoided in pregnancy because it can cause this effect in male fetuses.
What is feminization
Patients should avoid alcohol and limit activities requiring alertness until they know how spironolactone affects them, due to this side effect.
What is drowsiness or dizziness
Because of its anti-androgen effects, spironolactone is sometimes used in women with this condition that causes irregular cycles and excess hair growth.
What is polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)