SPIRONOLACTONE

Question 1

Drug class (2)

Answer 1

Potassium sparing diuretics/ Aldosterone antagonists

Question 2

How does it work? (3)

Answer 2

• Inhibits the effects of aldosterone
• by competitively binding to the aldosterone receptor
• this increases sodium and water excretion and potassium retention

Question 3

Indications (3)

Answer 3

1. Liver cirrhosis
   - ascites and oedema
2. chronic heart failure
3. primary hyperaldosteronism

Question 4

Contra-indications (4)

Answer 4

1. kidneys
   - severe renal impairment
2. Adrenal gland
   - Addison’s disease
3. Pregnancy or breast feeding
4. Ion imbalance
   - hyperkaelemia

Question 5

Side effects (4)

Answer 5

1. Ion imbalance
   - hyperkaelemia
2. breast
   - gynaecomastia
3. liver

• liver impairment
• jaundice

4. skin
   - steven-johnson’s syndrome

Question 6

Interactions

Answer 6

1. potassium elevating drugs

e. g. ACE I’s, ARBs, potassium supplements

Question 7

Eimination (2)

Answer 7

1. urine

2. faeces