Spironolactone

Medically reviewed by Jessica Swirble, PharmD
Last updated on 4/20/2024

Drug Information | Side Effects | Use & Dosage | Request a Prescription

The use of spironolactone can lead to various side effects in some individuals.

Common mild side effects of spironolactone use include:

• Stomach pain
  
• Vomiting
  
• Diarrhea
  
• Dizziness
  
• Drowsiness/ fatigue
  
• Headache
  
• Breast tenderness or enlargement in males
  
• Menstrual irregularities in females
  
• Increased urination
  
• Sexual problems
  
  

More severe side effects of spironolactone use can include:

• Hyperkalemia (high potassium levels in the blood)
  
• Severe allergic reactions (rash, itching/swelling, severe dizziness, trouble breathing)
  
• Muscle pain/ cramps
  
• Changes in heartbeat
  
• Chest pain
  
• Electrolyte imbalances (such as low sodium levels)
  
• Loss of coordination
  
• Loss of movement
  
• Slurred speech
  
• Abnormal bleeding or bruising
  
• Liver problems (symptoms may include yellowing of the skin/eyes, dark urine, abdominal pain)
  
  

If you experience any severe side effects while taking spironolactone, seek immediate medical attention.

Inform your healthcare provider about any existing medical conditions, allergies, or other medications you are taking before starting treatment with spironolactone. This includes prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, and dietary supplements, as they may interact with spironolactone.

Tell your provider if you are taking these medications or supplements:

• ACE inhibitors or angiotensin II receptor blockers (ARBs)
  
• Potassium supplements or salt substitutes containing potassium
  
• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
  
• Diuretics (water pills)
  
• Digoxin
  
• Lithium
  
• Blood pressure medications
  
• Eplerenone
  
• Diabetes medications
  
• Herbal supplements
  
  

Mention medical conditions such as:

• Kidney disease
  
• Liver disease
  
• Heart disease
  
• High potassium levels (hyperkalemia)
  
• Addison’s disease
  
• Electrolyte imbalances
  
  

If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, consult your healthcare provider before using spironolactone to assess potential risks and benefits.

Take spironolactone exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider. Do not increase or decrease the dosage without consulting them.

Spironolactone may be prescribed along with daily exercise and a reduced-sodium diet. Avoid taking potassium-based salt substitutes while taking spironolactone.

It's important to monitor your potassium levels regularly while taking spironolactone, especially if you have conditions that can affect potassium balance. Avoid excessive consumption of potassium-rich foods or supplements while on spironolactone, unless advised otherwise by your healthcare provider. This may include bananas, prunes, raisins, apricots, and orange juice.

If you experience symptoms such as excessive thirst, confusion, weakness, irregular heartbeat, or muscle cramps, contact your healthcare provider promptly as they may indicate electrolyte imbalances.

In case of a spironolactone overdose, seek immediate medical attention. Symptoms may include confusion, dizziness, drowsiness, nausea, vomiting, irregular heartbeat, or fainting. If you suspect an overdose, contact the poison control helpline at 1-800-222-1222 or call emergency services.