Aldactazide 50Mg Tablet

Primary Uses

Hypertension

Indications

This medicine is used for oedema (swelling) associated with congestive heart failure (heart disorder), hepatic ascites (fluid in abdomen due to liver disorder) and kidney disease where potasssium supplement is required.

Side Effects

Patients taking this medicine may experience gynaecomastia(hormone imbalance), GI upset (upset stomach), rash, drowsiness, headache, or confusion. Please consult your doctor if you experience any of these symptoms.

Contraindications

Please consult your doctor before taking this medicine if you have anuria (kidneys unable to produce urine), renal failure (kidney disorder) or hyperkalaemia(high level of potassium).

FAQS

What type of a drug is spironolactone and what does it do?

It is a potassium sparing diuretic, which means it blocks a certain hormone’s action which allows for more fluid and less potassium to pass through the kidney.

Can it be taken with captopril?

Captopril is an ACE inhibitor and research suggests that it interacts with spironolactone. It is recommended that you refrain from the use of these two drugs together because it can cause hyperkalemia (increased potassium levels in blood).

Is this drug used to treat acne?

Yes, has been used at lower doses to treat acne in females by combining it with an oral contraceptive. However, it is not a quick fix and isn’t recommended as a treatment yet and should only be taken if advised by your doctor.

Why is this drug not used in males?

It is not recommended to be used in males because it makes the skin less responsive to androgens and feminizes a man. A common side effect of this drug in males is gynaecomastia (enlargement of breasts).

Are irregular periods a side effect of this drug?

Yes, irregular periods are a common side effect of this drug. Please consult your doctor if you are experiencing this side effect.

Can this medicine be crushed?

There is no harm in crushing the tablet for swallowing if required, however it is best to take it whole with water.

Can this medicine treat hirsutism (excessive hair growth)?

Yes, it has been used as a treatment for hirsutism because it decreases testosterone levels. Please do not use this drug to treat hirustism unless advised otherwise by your doctor.

Can I take this medicine while taking indomethacin?

When indomethacin is used, it increases the diuretic effect of spironolactone and together they may cause an increase in the potassium levels in the blood. Let your doctor know if you are on indomethacin before starting treatment with this drug.

Can this drug cause decrease in the effect of an oral contraceptive?

It does not reduce the efficacy of your birth control/OCP. When taken with it, it helps in reducing hormonal acne and hirsutism in women.

Is hyponatremia an adverse effect of this drug?

Yes, it has been reported to cause hyponatremia (very low amounts of sodium in blood). Please consult your doctor if you are suffering from the signs and symptoms of hyponatremia which are lethargy, restlessness, muscle weakness, confusion, irritability, drowsiness or fatigue.

Is this drug both a steroid and a diuretic?

Yes, it is both a potassium sparing diuretic which helps in the excretion of excess fluids from the body and a synthetic steroid which works by blocking the effect of mainly the hormone aldosterone; and testosterone as well.

Can this drug cause cancer?

Spironolactone raises the risk of breast cancer in women. Talk to your doctor if you have a family history of cancer or have any concerns related to this side effect.

Can this drug alter my estrogen levels?

It has not been reported to cause any increase or decrease in the estrogen levels. Being a synthetic steroid, it blocks the effects of aldosterone and testosterone; in turn producing effects that are very similar to those of the hormone progesterone.

What are the most common side effects of hydrochlorothiazide?

The more common side effects that can occur with hydrochlorothiazide include blood pressure that is lower than normal (especially when standing up after sitting or lying down), dizziness (feeling like sleeping), headache, and weakness.

What is the best time of day to take hydrochlorothiazide?

If you are to take a single dose a day, take it in the morning after breakfast. If you are to take more than one dose a day, take the last dose no later than 6 p.m., unless otherwise directed by your doctor.

Does hydrochlorothiazide make you pee a lot?

Hydrochlorothiazide belongs to a class of medicine known as diuretics water pills. It works by causing you to make more urine. This helps your body get rid of extra salt and water. This medicine also reduces extra fluid in the body (edema) caused by conditions such as heart failure, liver disease, or kidney disease.

How to administer this medicine?

This medicine is mostly used orally. The dose is dependent on the age, condition and its severity.

Can I drink any alcohol at all while taking hydrochlorothiazide?

Drinking alcohol with this medicine can cause side effects.

How to store this medicine?

Please store this medicine at room temperature away from excessive light, moisture, and children.

How long does it take for hydrochlorothiazide to start working?

Pharmacological effects begin in about 2 hours after an oral dose, peaks in 4 hours, and lasts for about 6 to 12 hours.