Aldactone 50 Tablet

Aldactone 50 tablet contains spironolactone as its active ingredient. It is classified as a diuretic. It is used to prevent excessive absorption of salt and water by your body.

This medicine causes an increase in the frequency of urination and is used for the reduction of swelling, predominantly in the legs, due to excess fluid accumulation. Aldactone 50 also helps in managing high blood pressure. However, due to some side effects of the medication, Aldactone 50 tablet is recommended to be taken in the correct doses and for the exact duration strictly as prescribed by a doctor.

It is important to inform the doctor about any pre-existing conditions and also about the medications and supplements consumed to avoid possible drug interactions.

Dosage

Overdose

• An overdose of Aldactone 50 tablet can cause drowsiness, mental confusion, skin rashes, nausea, vomiting and diarrhoea. If you experience any of these symptoms or in case of an overdose, contact your doctor immediately or visit the nearest hospital.

Missed a Dose

• Missing a dose of Aldactone 50 tablet may reduce the effectiveness of the treatment and may lead to treatment failure. Hence, it is better to follow the prescribed schedule for optimal results.
• If you have missed taking any dose of this medicine, take it as soon as you remember, if it is time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule.
• Do not take a double dose of this medicine to compensate for the missed one.

Mode of Action

How Does It Work?

Aldactone 50 tablet works by removing excess water and electrolytes from the body. It also prevents the loss of potassium which is important for the proper functioning of the heart. Thus, it helps in reducing swelling and blood pressure.

Directions for Use

• Aldactone 50 tablet should be taken by mouth with a sufficient amount of water.
• Do not break, cut or chew the medicine.
• Dosage and frequency should be as prescribed by your physician.
• You should take this medicine regularly at the same time and as directed by your doctor.
• Do not consume it more than the quantity prescribed by your doctor.

Precautions and Warnings

Pregnancy

Can I take Aldactone 50 tablet during pregnancy?

It is not safe to use Aldactone 50 tablet during pregnancy.

Breast Feeding

Can I take Aldactone 50 tablet while breastfeeding?

It is not recommended during breastfeeding as it passes into the breastmilk in small amounts and can be harmful to the newborn baby. You should consult your doctor before using Aldactone 50 tablet during breastfeeding.

Driving

Can I drive if I have consumed Aldactone 50 tablet?

Driving should be avoided as it can cause drowsiness and dizziness as soon as you stand.

Alcohol

Can I consume alcohol with Aldactone 50 tablet?

Alcohol should be avoided during its course as it can reduce blood pressure in a standing position, causing loss of consciousness.

Other General Warnings

Talk to your doctor if

• You are diagnosed with kidney disease, as it can cause an electrolyte imbalance and require regular monitoring during the treatment, especially in elders.
• You have any underlying medical condition like heart-related problems or difficulty in passing urine, etc.
• You are pregnant and are breastfeeding.
• Avoid taking any potassium supplements as both can increase the potassium level in your blood which is harmful.

Contraindications

• If you are allergic to spironolactone or any other ingredient of Aldactone 50 tablet.
• If you are unable to pass urine.
• If you have Addison’s disease (symptoms are stomach pain, weakness, weight loss or low blood pressure).
• If you are already taking any potassium supplements.
• If you are diagnosed with high potassium levels in the blood or are already taking a water pill (like Eplerenone) that retains potassium.
• If you are pregnant or you think you may be pregnant or are breastfeeding.

Side effects

• Increased level of potassium
• Confusion
• Dizziness
• Nausea
• Rashes
• Muscle pain
• Weakness
• Enlarged breast in men, pain in the breast
• Kidney dysfunction

Interactions

Interactions with other medicines

• Tell your healthcare provider about all the medicines you take, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins and herbal supplements. Aldactone 50 tablet may affect the way other medicines work and other medicines may affect how Aldactone 50 tablet works.
• Especially, if you are taking potassium supplements, medicines used for heart-related disorders like digoxin or other water pills, antibacterial like trimethoprim, etc.
• Aldactone 50 tablet, when taken along with blood-pressure-lowering medicines like Captopril and lisinopril, may lower the blood pressure excessively and you may feel giddy, thus should be used with caution.
• Concomitant use of Aldactone 50 tablet along with blood thinners like Heparin, antibiotics like Cotrimoxazole, painkillers (NSAID's) like Indomethacin, etc.(NSAID's), can cause an increase in the blood potassium levels.

Interactions with food items

Aldactone 50mg can be taken with or without food. Avoid foods that are high in potassium, such as bananas, oranges, papayas, tomatoes, and certain vegetables like potatoes and spinach.

Storage and disposal

• Store Aldactone 50 tablet at room temperature.
• Avoid direct contact with sunlight, heat or moisture.
• Keep it away from children's reach.
• Do not use expired products in any case.
• Discard the product as soon as it gets expired.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before starting this medication?

Inform your doctor in detail about your medical and surgical history. Tell your doctor about your current medications, herbal preparations and nutritional supplements.

Can Aldactone 50 tablet be taken along with the potassium supplements?

It should not be taken with potassium supplements as both can increase potassium levels in your blood which will be harmful.

Is it safe to use Aldactone 50 tablet during pregnancy and breastfeeding?

It is not recommended to use this medicine during pregnancy and breastfeeding.

What are the various foods that should be avoided while taking the Aldactone 50 tablet?

Aldactone 50 tablet should be avoided along with high-potassium fruits and vegetables such as papaya, bananas, kiwis, oranges, cantaloupe, prune juice, honeydew melons, tomatoes, white and sweet potatoes, asparagus, pumpkin and brussels sprouts.

How much time does the Aldactone 50 tablet take to show its effect?

It may show its effect within 1 hour after taking this medicine but it may differ from person to person.

What time of day should I take the Aldactone?

You should take the Aldactone during day or night, exactly as told by the doctor. However, it is best to take your dose early in the morning to prevent getting up during the night to frequent urinate.

Can I stop taking the Aldactone suddenly?

No, you should not stop taking the Aldactone abruptly, otherwise, you may start retaining water or may lead sudden increase in blood pressure. Hence, if you wish to stop the treatment, consult a doctor. The doctor will gradually decrease the dose or may switch to any alternative depending on the medical condition.