spironolactone

Last reviewed 08/2021

Spironolactone is an aldosterone antagonist (also reduces the activity of the enzyme Na+K+ATPase in renal tubular cells (1)) used in the treatment of:

• oedema and ascites in liver cirrhosis
• malignant ascites
• nephrotic syndrome
• congestive heart failure
• primary aldosteronism

Contraindications include:

• hyperkalaemia
• severe renal impairment
• pregnancy and breast feeding
• Addison's disease
• porphyria

The summary of product characteristics must be consulted before prescribing this drug.

Reference:

1. Prescriber 2004; 15(9):50-6.