Spiractin

Spiractin (Spironolactone) is an aldosterone agonist that can cause the body to secrete more sodium and water. It has a wide range of medical uses, including the treatment of essential hypertension, congestive heart failure symptoms such as sodium and fluid retention (edema), nephrotic syndrome and hypokalemia. In the body, the adrenal glands produce a hormone called aldosterone which plays an important part in regulating water and salt levels. By blocking the activity of aldosterone, this medicine helps to bring about an increase in the volume of sodium and fluids that are released in the urine.

It is therefore classified as a diuretic (sometimes called water pill), and is useful in the treatment of conditions that cause edema (fluid accumulation in the body). This excess fluid can cause swelling, which could lead to potentially serious health problems. A build up of fluid in the lungs could affect breathing, whereas fluid accumulation in the ankles might result in inflammation. By allowing for more fluids and electrolytes to be drawn from the blood and excreted as urine, this medicine can help to treat these symptoms.

Physicians may also use it instead of other diuretics because it can prevent excessive potassium removal from the body. This medicine can also work as an antagonist of the body`s androgen receptors, and because of this, it has been used to treat female patients for a disorder known as hirsutism , in which unwanted hair growth on the face and elsewhere on the body occurs. Some physicians have also treated patients with it for acne.

Spiractin (Spironolactone) comes in two different strengths of tablets, which include 25mg and 100mg varieties. Patients treating congestive heart failure might be instructed by their physician to take 25mg per day, with adjustments in the form of increases or decreases being made if deemed necessary. The adult dosage for hirsutism depends on the individual circumstances of the patient and may range from 50mg to 200mg per day, given as divided doses. Edema, hypertension and other conditions may also require a different dosage schedule and patients will be required to comply with the direction of their physician at all times.

Patients who take Spiractin (Spironolactone) might suffer from some reactions, which can include:

• Vertigo
• Unusual hair growth
• Enlarged or sore breasts
• Sexual function problems
• Cramping which affects the legs

Talk to your physician if any side effects occur. It will be necessary to see a physician or attend the hospital straight away if you notice serious side effects, such as difficulty moving the limbs, high levels of potassium, bruises or any other severe reactions that have not been mentioned here.

Avoid driving or the use of machinery if you become drowsy after taking this medication.

You may be provided with dietary instructions by your physician, which may include avoiding excess salt consumption.