Aldactone - Spironolactone

Saunders, F. J. and R.L. Alberti (1978). Aldactone Spironolactone A Comprehensive Review. Searle, New York. 

Saunders FJ, Alberti RL (1978) Aldactone spironolactone a comprehensive review. Searle, New York... 

When administering spironolactone (Aldactone), die nurse monitors die patient closely for which of die following electrolyte imbalances ... 

Aldactone containing spironolactone (potassium-sparing diuretic and an aldosterone antagonist) is used with caution in cases of porphyria. 

The administration of spironolactone (Aldactone) interferes in the determination of 11-hydroxy corticosteroid by methods that depend on formation of fluorescence in strong sulfuric acid (W15). In 5 patients, the administration of the drug produced as much as a 5-fold increase in the apparent plasma cortisol levels. Aspirin interferes in the determinations of homovanillic acid (HVA) by a fluorometric method. The HVA fluorophore occurs at 320 nm and 420 nm, and acetylsalicylic acid produces fluorescence at 305 to 405 nm (H12). 

Spironolactone (Aldactone) is structurally related to aldosterone and acts as a competitive inhibitor to prevent the binding of aldosterone to its specific cellular binding protein. Spironolactone thus blocks the hormone-induced stimulation of protein synthesis necessary for Na+ reabsorption and K+ secretion. Spironolactone, in the presence of circulating aldosterone, promotes a modest increase in Na excretion associated with a decrease in elimination. 

It has also been suggested that certain diuretics such as spironolactone (Aldactone) might be especially helpful in heart failure.14,42 Spironolactone blocks aldosterone receptors in the kidneys and other tissues, thereby producing a diuretic effect as well as preventing adverse cardiovascular changes associated with excess aldosterone production. Future studies will help clarify whether spironolactone should be used preferentially in heart failure because of its ability to reduce fluid volume and protect against aldosterone-induced damage.53... 

The mineralocorticoid antagonists used clinically include spironolactone (Aldactone) and eplerenone (Inspra). These drugs are competitive antagonists of the aldosterone receptor that is, they bind to the receptor but do not activate it. When bound to the... 

Potassium-sparing diuretics, such as amiloride (Midamor), spironolactone (Aldactone), and triamterene (Dyrenium), impair the ability of the kidneys to filter potassium from the body. This can result in a condition called hyperkalemia, or excessive potassium, a potentially dangerous situation (see Harmful side effects section). Anyone taking potassium-sparing diuretics should avoid excessive dietary intake of foods high in the mineral. Bananas, tomatoes, sweet potatoes, and oranges are some of the foods that are rich in potassium. 

Pitt B, Zannad F Remme WJ, et al. The effect of spironolactone on morbidity and mortality in patients with severe heart failure. Randomized Aldactone Evaluation Study Investigators. N EnglJ Med 1999 341 709-717. 

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