Spironolactone
Spironolactone
Spironolactone (pronounced: spy-roh-no-lak-tone) is a medication that belongs to a class of drugs known as potassium-sparing diuretics.
Etymology
The term "Spironolactone" is derived from the words 'spiro', which means spiral, and 'lactone', a type of chemical compound. The name reflects the drug's molecular structure, which contains a spirally arranged lactone group.
Usage
Spironolactone is primarily used to treat fluid build-up due to heart failure, liver disease, or kidney problems. It can also be used to treat high blood pressure, hyperaldosteronism, and low potassium levels.
Mechanism of Action
Spironolactone works by blocking the actions of a hormone in the body called aldosterone. Aldosterone is responsible for regulating the balance of salt and water in the body. By blocking aldosterone, Spironolactone helps the kidneys excrete excess salt and water while retaining potassium.
Side Effects
Common side effects of Spironolactone include dizziness, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. More serious side effects can include hyperkalemia, gynecomastia, and menstrual irregularities.
Related Terms
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Spironolactone
- Wikipedia's article - Spironolactone
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