Spironolactone is associated with a range of side effects, which can be grouped into common, less common, and serious categories.[1]
Common side effects may include:
- Dizziness or feeling lightheaded[1][2][3][4][7]
- Nausea and vomiting[1][2][3][4][5][6][7]
- Diarrhea and abdominal cramps[2][3][4][5][7]
- Headache[3][4][5][8]
- Fatigue or unusual tiredness[1][5][8]
- Muscle cramps, especially in the legs[1][5][6]
- Increased urination (polyuria)[5]
- Breast tenderness or swelling (can occur in both males and females)[3][4][5][6]
- Irregular menstrual cycles or bleeding after menopause[2][3][5]
- Reduced sex drive (decreased libido)[3][5][6][8]
- Drowsiness[2][3][4][8]
Less common or uncommon side effects can include:
- Confusion[3][4][5][8]
- Restlessness[1]
- Skin rash or itching[1][5][6][8]
- Hair loss or thinning[6]
- Erectile dysfunction[5][6]
- Pain in nipples[6]
- Sores, welts, or blisters[6]
Serious side effects (require immediate medical attention):
- Severe allergic reactions (swelling of the face, lips, mouth, tongue or throat, difficulty breathing, hives, rash, fever, joint pain)[1][6]
- High potassium levels (hyperkalemia), which can cause muscle weakness, irregular heartbeat, or numbness/tingling in extremities[2][4][5][6]
- Dehydration and low sodium (hyponatremia)[1][4][5]
- Worsening kidney function or acute kidney injury[1][4][5]
- Stomach bleeding or ulcers[5][6]
- Loss of balance or coordination[5][8]
- Chest pain or shortness of breath (rare)[6]
If you experience severe side effects or signs of an allergic reaction, seek medical attention immediately. For a comprehensive list, consult your doctor or review the leaflet provided with your medication.[1][6][7]
References
- [1] Spironolactone (Aldactone, Carospir) – Uses, Side Effects, and More
- [2] Spironolactone: Side Effects, Uses, Dosage, and More – Healthline
- [3] Side effects of spironolactone oral tablet – MedicalNewsToday
- [4] Retrospective analysis of adverse events with spironolactone in …
- [5] 13 Possible Side Effects of Spironolactone – GoodRx
- [6] Spironolactone (oral route) – Mayo Clinic
- [7] Side effects of spironolactone – NHS
- [8] Spironolactone – BAD Patient Hub – Skin Health Info
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