The diuretic medication spironolactone is available in Canada under the brand name Novo-Spiroton. This medication reduces fluid retention (edema) in the body and prevents too much sodium absorption. Doctors prescribe Novo-Spiroton to lower high blood pressure and remove excess fluid, and the drug also prevents potassium levels from dropping too low while sodium and fluid levels are reduced. Spironolactone also helps treat fluid retention in patients with congestive heart failure, liver cirrhosis, and the kidney disorder nephrotic syndrome. Because the drug also has hormonal effects, it can help with acne. Many side effects are possible.
Most Common Side Effects
Drug manufacturers hold clinical trials to determine the effectiveness of their newly-developed medications and to discover the frequency of side effects. In clinical trials with spironolactone, as listed by eMedTV, the most common side effects were diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, fever, confusion, drowsiness, lethargy and headache. These effects usually are temporary. Because spironolactone affects hormones, it can result in erectile dysfunction in men, and irregular or absent menstruation in women.
Hyperkalemia
Because Novo-Spiroton prevents depletion of potassium during elimination of excess fluid, it can lead to abnormally-high potassium levels (hyperkalemia) in some people. Signs include muscle pain or weakness, slow heart rate (bradycardia), irregular heart rate (arrhythmia), and unusual skin sensations such as burning, numbness prickling or tingling. This side effect is more likely in patients with diabetes or kidney disease, and in elderly people. Drugs.com notes that anyone taking spironolactone should not use salt substitutes or other substances containing potassium.
Allergic Reaction
Rarely, some people may experience an allergic reaction to Novo-Spiroton. Signs as listed by Drugs.com include a rash or hives, itching, unexplained swelling, wheezing, and difficulty breathing or swallowing. An allergic reaction to Novo-Spiroton should be considered a medical emergency.
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