Aldactone

What is it?

Composition

The basis of Aldactone is represented by the active substance - spironolactone, which ensures its action as a potassium-sparing diuretic and aldosterone antagonist. It is also important to note that the composition of the drug may include some excipients to improve the absorption and stability of the drug.

• Spironolactone is the main active ingredient that blocks aldosterone receptors.
• Lactose is often used as a filler in tablets, providing their shape and stability.
• Starch acts as a binder, improving the texture and dissolution of tablets.
• Magnesium stearate is a lubricant that helps in the production of the drug and prevents the components from sticking together.

Each of these components is selected to ensure not only the effectiveness, but also the safety of using Aldactone, which is especially important during long-term treatment.

How to use?

To achieve the best results from using Aldactone, it is important to strictly follow the recommendations for its use. Although the general instructions are quite simple, it is always better to consult a doctor for individual dosage selection.

1. For adults with arterial hypertension and edema syndrome, the recommended initial daily dose is 50-100 mg, which should be divided into 1-2 doses during the day.
2. If necessary, the dose can be gradually increased to 200 mg per day, always with the consent of the attending physician.
3. Aldactone is taken after meals, preferably once before bedtime, which helps to minimize possible side effects.

The duration of the course of treatment is determined individually, but usually not less than two weeks. This allows the drug to fully demonstrate its therapeutic properties.

How does it work?

Aldactone acts by blocking aldosterone receptors located in the distal tubules of the kidney nephrons. This counteraction increases the excretion of sodium and water and, conversely, reduces the loss of potassium and magnesium. This selective removal of electrolytes helps maintain the necessary balance in the body of patients suffering from excessive fluid retention and cardiovascular disorders. In addition to its diuretic effect, Aldactone helps reduce blood pressure by reducing the volume of circulating blood, which becomes noticeable after several weeks of regular use. This makes it an important component in the complex therapy of conditions such as arterial hypertension and chronic heart failure.

Indications

Indications for use of Aldactone cover a wide range of diseases accompanied by fluid retention in the body, as well as other conditions requiring correction of electrolyte balance.

• Arterial hypertension, including both primary and secondary forms of the disease.
• Heart failure, especially in cases of its chronic course.
• Liver cirrhosis, accompanied by edema and ascites.
• Nephrotic syndrome, characterized by edema and proteinuria.
• Primary and secondary hyperaldosteronism associated with hypersecretion of aldosterone.

Before starting to take Aldactone, you must consult a doctor to clarify specific indications and determine the individual characteristics of treatment.

Contraindications

Despite the positive effects, Aldactone has a number of contraindications that should be strictly taken into account before starting therapy.

• Hypersensitivity to the components of the drug and spironolactone.
• Addisons disease, characterized by insufficient secretion of hormones by the adrenal cortex.
• Potassium intoxication (hyperkalemia), where the potassium level exceeds the permissible norms.
• Co-administration with other potassium-sparing diuretics or potassium-containing supplements.
• Severe kidney disease, including chronic renal failure and anuria.
• Contraindicated during pregnancy and many other conditions, which should be clarified with a doctor.

Based on these data, it is important to be careful and avoid using Aldactone in the presence of the indicated risk factors.

Side effects

Like any medicine, Aldactone may cause some side effects, which vary in nature and intensity.

• Headaches and dizziness, which occur as the body reacts to changes in electrolyte balance.
• Gastrointestinal disturbances, such as diarrhea, nausea and vomiting.
• Hormonal changes, including menstrual irregularities and changes in libido.
• Skin manifestations, such as rash and itching, indicating an allergic reaction.
• Breast enlargement in men (gynecomastia), which is usually reversible after stopping the drug.

If you notice any alarming symptoms, it is always worth seeking advice from a specialist.