Spironolactone

Spironolactone is used to treat fluid retention caused by heart, liver or kidney disease. It is also used to treat high blood pressure by eliminating fluids from the body without lowering potassium levels. It works by lowering the amount of aldosterone in the body in order to stimulate the kidneys to eliminate more fluid.

Side Effects/Warnings

This medication causes cancerous tumors in laboratory animals. Although there are currently no studies demonstrating that it causes tumors in humans, patients should not take it unless absolutely necessary. This medication also should not be taken for conditions other than the ones it is prescribed for. There is a risk of dehydration from the elimination of too much fluid when taking this medication.