Spironolactone
Spironolactone is a diuretic (potassium-sparing) found in 5 medicines sold in India, such as Aldactone 25, Aldactone 50, Aldactone 100. Below: what it is for, how it works, how to take it, side effects, interactions and pregnancy advice.
What it is used for
Removes extra fluid in heart failure and liver disease; also used for some hormone conditions.
How it works
A potassium-sparing diuretic that blocks the hormone aldosterone; used for heart failure, liver fluid, resistant high blood pressure, acne and excess hair in women.
How to take it
Usually 25 to 100 mg once a day with food. Blood potassium is checked.
Common side effects
- Breast swelling or tenderness (men too)
- Irregular periods
- Dizziness
- High potassium
Get medical help straight away if
Muscle weakness, slow or irregular heartbeat (high potassium)
Be careful
Can raise potassium; avoid potassium supplements unless advised.
Other medicines and interactions
Do not take potassium supplements or salt substitutes unless told. Risk of high potassium with ACE inhibitors, ARBs, trimethoprim and NSAIDs.
Pregnancy and breastfeeding
Avoid in pregnancy; considered acceptable while breastfeeding.
Brands of Spironolactone (5)
Common questions
What is Spironolactone used for?
Removes extra fluid in heart failure and liver disease; also used for some hormone conditions.
How does Spironolactone work?
A potassium-sparing diuretic that blocks the hormone aldosterone; used for heart failure, liver fluid, resistant high blood pressure, acne and excess hair in women.
How should I take Spironolactone?
Usually 25 to 100 mg once a day with food. Blood potassium is checked.
What are the side effects of Spironolactone?
Common: Breast swelling or tenderness (men too), irregular periods, dizziness, high potassium. Get help straight away for: Muscle weakness, slow or irregular heartbeat (high potassium).
Does Spironolactone interact with other medicines?
Do not take potassium supplements or salt substitutes unless told. Risk of high potassium with ACE inhibitors, ARBs, trimethoprim and NSAIDs.
Is Spironolactone safe in pregnancy and breastfeeding?
Avoid in pregnancy; considered acceptable while breastfeeding.
Does Spironolactone need a prescription in India?
Yes. In India it is a prescription (Schedule H) medicine, so a pharmacist should sell it only with a doctor's prescription.
Which brands contain Spironolactone?
Aldactone 100, Aldactone 25, Aldactone 50, Aldobloc 25, Silectone 25.
Sources and further reading
- Spironolactone: NHS · MedlinePlus
NHS (UK National Health Service) and MedlinePlus (US National Library of Medicine) are free, reviewed medicine guides. Brand names and doses there may differ from India.
Last reviewed 31 October 2026. Written by Satya Babu from standard prescribing information.
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