What is Spironolactone?

Spironolactone, is used to reduce fluid accumulation that may occur in disorders such as heart failure or liver disease in dogs and cats. Spironolactone is also used to treat potassium deficiency and hyperaldosteronism. It is also used in the treatment of abdominal fluid distention (ascites) associated with some liver diseases. It is also used to control hypertension (high blood pressure).

Spironolactone requires a prescription from your veterinarian.

For:

Cats and Dogs

Benefits:

• Treats hypertension and decrease fluid accumulation
• Easy to administer
• Treats potassium deficiency

Cautions:

Tell your veterinarian if your pet has kidney or liver disease, diabetes mellitus, high levels of potassium in the blood, or if your pet is being given a potassium supplement or an ACE inhibitor such as enalapril or lisinopril. Tell your veterinarian if your pet is pregnant or lactating. Spironolactone will cause your pet to urinate often, and your pet may have "accidents" and need to go outside or use the litter box. Make sure that your pet eats and drinks well while taking spironolactone or the risk of side effects increases.

Brand Name:

Various

Generic Name:

Spironolactone

What is Spironolactone:

Spironolactone should not be used in animals with known hypersensitivity or allergy to the drug. Spironolactone should be avoided in animals with kidney impairment, liver disease, Addison's disease, or excessive blood potassium levels. Spironolactone may interact with other medications. Consult with your veterinarian to determine if other drugs your pet is receiving could interact with spironolactone. Such drugs include aspirin, enalapril, digoxin and other diuretics. Tell your veterinarian if your pet is pregnant or lactating.

What happens if I miss giving a dose:

Give the missed dose as soon as possible. However, if it is almost time for the next regularly scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and give the next one as directed. Do not give a double dose of the medication.

Possible side effects of Spironolactone:

If any of the following serious side effects occur, stop giving spironolactone and seek emergency veterinary care; an allergic reaction (difficulty breathing; swelling of the lips; tongue or face; hives); an irregular heartbeat, shortness of breath, fatigue, confusion, weakness, numbness, or decreased urination. Continue giving spironolactone and talk to your veterinarian if your pet experiences headache, dizziness, nausea, diarrhea, decreased appetite, or dry mouth.

Storage:

Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat.