spironolactone /spī′rənəlak″tōn/ , a potassium-sparing aldosterone antagonist diuretic. ▪ INDICATIONS: It is prescribed in the treatment of primary hyperaldosteronism, edema of congestive heart failure, cirrhosis of the liver accompanied by edema, nephrotic syndrome, essential hypertension, and hypokalemia. ▪ CONTRAINDICATIONS: Anuria, acute renal insufficiency, significant impairment of renal function, or hyperkalemia prohibits its use. ▪ ADVERSE EFFECTS: Among the most serious adverse effects are hyperkalemia, gynecomastia, mental confusion, ataxia, impotence, amenorrhea, hirsutism, and urticaria.
