Aldosterone antagonists: What They Do, Medicines
Also in: हिन्दी தமிழ் मराठी తెలుగు ಕನ್ನಡ বাংলা ગુજરાતી മലയാളം
Aldosterone antagonists are prescription medicines that block the hormone aldosterone. They help the body lose extra salt and water while keeping potassium. They are used for fluid build-up, heart failure and high blood pressure, and an example is spironolactone. They can raise the potassium level in the blood, so blood tests are needed.
Pharmacist review in progress. This page is based on the sources listed below and is being checked by our registered pharmacist.
How do Aldosterone antagonists work?
Aldosterone makes the kidneys hold on to salt and water and give up potassium. These medicines block its receptor, so more salt and water leave in the urine while potassium is kept, reducing extra fluid and lowering blood pressure.
Active ingredients of this type
These active ingredients belong to Aldosterone antagonists. They are listed A to Z.
- Spironolactone: Spironolactone is a prescription 'water tablet' that removes extra fluid but keeps potassium in the body.
Common questions
Why do aldosterone antagonists raise potassium?
Because they stop the kidneys losing potassium. This is useful when other water tablets lower potassium, but too much can cause weakness or an irregular heartbeat. Doctors check blood tests. Ask before taking potassium supplements or salt substitutes.
Are aldosterone antagonists used in heart failure?
Yes, in some people with heart failure, alongside other heart medicines, when a doctor decides it is suitable. Do not start or stop one on your own.
Sources
- ATC/DDD Index: C03DA Aldosterone antagonists. WHO Collaborating Centre for Drug Statistics Methodology
- Spironolactone: a medicine to remove excess fluid. NHS (UK)