Spironolactone

Blood pressure

Also known as Aldactone

Spironolactone is a diuretic (water pill) that helps your body shed extra salt and fluid, lowering blood pressure and easing strain on your heart. Unlike most water pills, it keeps potassium instead of flushing it out — which is helpful, but it means too much potassium becomes the thing to watch. It's also used for heart failure, fluid buildup, and sometimes hormonal acne.

How to take it

When

Morning is usually best if it makes you pee a lot — a late dose can keep you up at night.

Food

Take it the same way every day. With food can be easier on your stomach.

Avoid

Skip potassium supplements and "lite" salt substitutes — those are potassium chloride, and this drug already raises your potassium.

Blood tests

Your doctor will check your potassium and kidney function regularly. Those tests matter — keep the appointments.

Missed a dose?

Take it as soon as you remember, unless it's close to your next dose — then skip the missed one. Never double up.

Common side effects

Peeing more often
Breast tenderness or enlargement — this can happen in men too
Dizziness or lightheadedness
Stomach upset
Irregular periods

Call a doctor if

Muscle weakness, tingling, or a slow or irregular heartbeat — signs of high potassium, get help now
Fainting or severe dizziness
Little or no urination
Extreme thirst, dry mouth, and confusion — signs of dehydration, call your doctor right away

Educational only. This summary is drawn from public FDA labeling and MedlinePlus and simplified for readability. Your prescription label and your pharmacist always come first — doses and instructions vary from person to person.