What is spironolactone?
Spironolactone (generic for Aldactone) is a prescription medication used to treat high blood pressure or swelling (edema) associated with congestive heart failure, liver disease, or a kidney disorder. It is also used as a therapy for people with hyperaldosteronism (a condition in which the adrenal gland produces too much of the hormone aldosterone), and to treat low potassium levels in the blood. Nearly half of adults in the United States have high blood pressure. When left untreated, this condition can cause heart disease, heart failure, kidney disease, blood vessel damage, increased risk of a stroke or heart attack, and more. Spironolactone is usually prescribed along with other medications to increase survival and reduce swelling after heart failure. As a treatment for high blood pressure, it is commonly prescribed as an oral tablet to be taken with other medication and lifestyle adjustments to reduce your risk of heart failure.