Spironolacton
Spironolactone is a medication that is primarily used to treat fluid build-up due to heart failure, liver scarring, or kidney disease. It is also used in the treatment of high blood pressure, low blood potassium, and Conn's syndrome. In addition to these uses, it is also often prescribed for certain types of hormonal therapy.
Pharmacology[edit | edit source]
Spironolactone is classified as a potassium-sparing diuretic, which means it promotes the output of urine (a diuretic) while allowing the body to retain potassium. It does this by antagonizing the aldosterone receptor. Aldosterone is a hormone that promotes the retention of sodium and water, which in turn increases the volume of fluid in the body and contributes to high blood pressure.
Medical Uses[edit | edit source]
Spironolactone is used to treat a variety of conditions. It is often prescribed to treat edema, a condition characterized by an excess of fluid in the body. This can be caused by a variety of conditions, including heart failure, liver disease, and kidney disease. By promoting the excretion of excess fluid, spironolactone can help to alleviate the symptoms of these conditions.
In addition to its use as a diuretic, spironolactone is also used to treat high blood pressure. It does this by blocking the action of aldosterone, a hormone that contributes to high blood pressure.
Spironolactone is also used in the treatment of hyperaldosteronism, a condition characterized by the overproduction of aldosterone. This can lead to a variety of symptoms, including high blood pressure, low potassium levels, and fluid retention.
Side Effects[edit | edit source]
Like all medications, spironolactone can cause side effects. These can include gynecomastia, menstrual irregularities, and impotence. In rare cases, it can also cause a potentially serious condition known as hyperkalemia, which is characterized by excessively high levels of potassium in the blood.
See Also[edit | edit source]
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