Spironart (Spironolactone) 25 mg Tablets: Uses, Side Effects & More

What it is

Spironart is a brand of spironolactone, a potassium-sparing diuretic (often called a 'water pill') that helps the body get rid of extra fluid without losing potassium. It belongs to a class of drugs known as aldosterone antagonists. This medicine is available as 25 mg tablets and is registered with NAFDAC under number B4-1234.

What it's used for

Spironart is used to treat several conditions. It is prescribed for people with certain types of heart failure (NYHA Class III–IV with reduced ejection fraction) to help them live longer, manage fluid buildup, and reduce hospital stays. It is also added to other blood pressure medicines to lower blood pressure, which reduces the risk of strokes and heart attacks. For adults with cirrhosis (liver disease) who have fluid buildup that does not respond to other treatments, Spironart can help manage edema. Additionally, it is used to diagnose and treat primary hyperaldosteronism, a condition where the body produces too much of the hormone aldosterone.

How it's taken

Spironart tablets are taken by mouth, typically once daily. The dose depends on the condition being treated. For heart failure, the usual starting dose is 25 mg once daily. For high blood pressure, the starting dose is usually between 25 mg and 100 mg daily, taken all at once or split into two doses. For edema in cirrhosis when other treatments have not worked, treatment is typically started in a hospital with 100 mg daily. For primary hyperaldosteronism, doses may range from 100 mg to 400 mg daily, usually before surgery. Your doctor will decide the exact dose and may adjust it based on your response and lab results. Do not change your dose or stop taking the medicine without talking to your doctor or pharmacist.

Common side effects

Like all medicines, Spironart can cause side effects. The most common include high potassium levels in the blood (hyperkalemia), low blood pressure (hypotension), worsening kidney function, and electrolyte or metabolic changes. Some people may develop breast enlargement or tenderness (gynecomastia). In people with liver disease and fluid buildup, it can sometimes cause confusion or coma. Your doctor will check your potassium levels, kidney function, and other labs regularly to reduce these risks.

Important cautions

Do not take Spironart if you have high potassium levels (hyperkalemia), Addison's disease (a condition where the adrenal glands do not make enough hormones), or if you are already taking eplerenone (another medicine for heart failure). Tell your doctor about all other medicines you take, especially other potassium-sparing diuretics, ACE inhibitors, ARBs, or potassium supplements, as they can raise potassium levels too high. If you have kidney or liver problems, diabetes, or are older, your doctor will use caution and monitor you closely. Avoid taking too much salt or salt substitutes that contain potassium. If you become dizzy or feel faint, tell your doctor. This medicine is not recommended during pregnancy unless clearly needed.

Frequently asked questions