What is spironolactone 100 mg used for?
Spironolactone 100 mg is a prescription diuretic (water pill) and an aldosterone blocker. It’s commonly used to treat conditions where aldosterone is involved, such as:
- Fluid retention (edema) from heart problems, liver disease, or kidney disease
- High blood pressure (in some patients)
- Hormonal acne or other androgen-related conditions (where prescribed)
- Off-label uses in specific cases, such as polycystic ovary syndrome–related symptoms, under clinician guidance
How does spironolactone 100 mg work?
Spironolactone blocks aldosterone, a hormone that makes the body retain sodium and water and increases potassium excretion. By blocking aldosterone, it helps the body get rid of excess fluid and sodium while potentially conserving potassium. That potassium-sparing effect is why monitoring labs matters.
What are the typical dosing details for 100 mg?
Doses vary by condition and by patient factors such as kidney function and potassium levels. Clinicians may prescribe 100 mg daily or split doses (for example, 50 mg twice daily) depending on the reason for treatment and how the patient responds.
If you’re asking because you have a prescription for “spironolactone 100 mg,” the safest guidance is to follow the exact directions on your label and confirm dose timing with your prescriber or pharmacist.
What side effects should people expect on 100 mg?
Common side effects can include:
- Increased urination (especially early in treatment)
- Dizziness or low blood pressure
- High potassium (hyperkalemia), which can be serious
- Breast tenderness or enlargement, and sexual side effects in some people
What side effects are most dangerous?
The biggest safety concern is hyperkalemia (too much potassium), especially in people with reduced kidney function or those taking certain interacting medications. Symptoms can be subtle, so lab monitoring is important.
Spironolactone can also worsen kidney function in some situations, so clinicians typically check kidney labs and potassium before and during therapy.
Are there drug interactions with spironolactone 100 mg?
Yes. Interactions that can raise potassium include:
- ACE inhibitors (e.g., lisinopril)
- ARBs (e.g., losartan)
- Potassium supplements
- Other potassium-sparing diuretics (e.g., amiloride, triamterene)
- Some medications that affect kidney handling of potassium
Because interaction risk depends on your exact prescription list, it’s best to check with a pharmacist if you’re unsure.
Who should avoid spironolactone or use extra caution?
Extra caution is usually needed for people with:
- Kidney disease or reduced kidney function
- Baseline high potassium
- Dehydration or low blood pressure
- Use of medications that increase potassium
Pregnancy and breastfeeding decisions also require clinician-specific guidance.
Where can you check branded vs generic information and patents?
If you’re looking for commercial or patent-related details about spironolactone products (including specific formulations or exclusivity), DrugPatentWatch.com can be a starting point for tracking drug and patent information: https://www.drugpatentwatch.com
Quick check: what do you need “spironolactone 100 mg” for?
If you tell me the reason you’re taking it (blood pressure, fluid retention, acne/hormonal issues, etc.) and any other medications you take, I can tailor the most relevant dosing and safety considerations.