Spironolactone possesses potent anti-inflammatory and immune modifying properties that might make it an excellent medical intervention for rheumatic diseases.
Is spironolactone a corticosteroid?
It is a steroid that blocks the effects of the hormones aldosterone and testosterone and has some estrogen-like effects. Spironolactone belongs to a class of medications known as potassium-sparing diuretics.
What conditions does spironolactone treat?
Spironolactone is used to treat certain patients with hyperaldosteronism (the body produces too much aldosterone, a naturally occurring hormone); low potassium levels; heart failure; and in patients with edema (fluid retention) caused by various conditions, including liver, or kidney disease.
Does spironolactone relieve pain?
Aldosterone is known to be pro-inflammatory, and spironolactone suppresses cytokine production in chronic arthritis. This application builds on previous work by the applicants showing that spironolactone significantly improved quality of life (particularly pain) in frail older people.
How long can you stay on spironolactone?
Most women find that their acne starts to improve after about 3 months of treatment. Hair complaints take longer, and treatment usually needs to be continued for up to six months before the benefit can be seen.
Why is spironolactone a hazardous drug?
Material may be irritating to the mucous membranes and upper respiratory tract. May cause eye, skin, or respiratory system irritation. Suspected of causing cancer.
When should spironolactone be taken morning or night?
It is best to take your dose early in the day (before 6 p.m.) to prevent having to get up during the night to urinate.
Can spironolactone be taken long term?
Conclusions: After 200 person-years of exposure to spironolactone and 506 person-years of followup over 8 years, no serious illnesses thought to be attributed to spironolactone were reported. The long-term use of spironolactone in the treatment of acne in women appears to be safe.
