Spironolactone is a medication typically used to treat high blood pressure, heart failure, and fluid retention. It’s also sometimes used as a treatment for acne in women. When taken as directed, spironolactone is safe.
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However, like all medications, there are some potential side effects. One of the most common side effects of spironolactone is increased thirst and dry mouth (Dehydration).
Dehydration may sound like a simple side effect to address, but can you just drink more water when taking spironolactone? ? The answer is based on a number of variables, beginning with the purpose of your medication use.
In this blog post, we will talk more on how much water you should drink when taking spironolactone. We will also discuss other potential side effects of the medication and what you can do to minimize them.
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What Is Spironolactone?
Spironolactone is a potassium-sparing diuretic (water pill) also known as Aldactone, that prevents your body from absorbing too much salt and keeps your potassium levels from getting too low. It is used to treat edema (fluid retention) in people with congestive heart failure, cirrhosis of the liver, or kidney problems called nephrotic syndrome. It is also used to treat high blood pressure and hyperaldosteronism, a condition where your body secretes too much of the hormone aldosterone.
Spironolactone is usually taken once daily, either in the morning or evening. You may need to take it for a few days before you start to feel better. Only those with a prescription can get the medication. Tablets and suspension are the two available forms.
How Does Spironolactone Works?
Spironolactone is a potassium-sparing diuretic, which means it helps prevents you from absorbing too much salt into your body while working as a diuretic in your body to get rid of water while keeping potassium.
It works by blocking the hormone aldosterone, which is responsible for salt and water retention. When aldosterone is blocked, more sodium and water are excreted in the urine and less potassium is lost in the urine. This medication is sometimes used for the treatment of acne vulgaris, where it can reduce sebum production.
Potential Side Effects Of Spironolactone
There are a number of potential side effects associated with spironolactone, including:
Mild Side Effects Of Spironolactone;
-Dizziness
-Lightheadedness
-Diarrhea
-Stomach upset
-Nausea
-Vomiting
-Headache
Severe Side Effects Of Spironolactone;
-Decreased urination
-Nausea/vomiting that doesn’t seem to cease
-Mood swing
-Fatigue/weakness
-Muscle cramps
-Changes in menstrual cycle
-Breast pain
-Breast enlargement
-Severe stomach pain
-Dark-colored urine
-Yellow coloration of the skin
If you have or notice any of these potential side effects, it’s essential to contact your doctor right away so as to avoid several other related issues.
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How Much Water Should I Drink When Taking Spironolactone?
Because spironolactone is a diuretic that causes your kidneys to eliminate excess water, it also has the potential to cause dehydration. When taking spironolactone, it is important to drink plenty of water. This will help to prevent dehydration and keep your body functioning properly.
It is recommended that you drink eight glasses of water per day when taking spironolactone. Eating fruits and vegetables that have high water content, such as watermelon or celery, may also help you stay hydrated.
If drinking enough water feels challenging, Buoy hydration drops offer an effortless alternative. Whether it’s water or any other beverage, adding these drops will restore electrolyte imbalance and keep you adequately hydrated, especially while taking spironolactone.
Should You Drink More Water on Spironolactone?
If you’re taking spironolactone, you may be wondering, should you drink more water? While there’s no definitive answer, it’s generally recommended that you drink more water than usual when taking this medication but this doesn’t apply to everyone as some individual fluid needs are unique.
Certain individuals with kidney or heart disease may have fluid restrictions. As a result, they might not be able to drink as much water as the average person taking spironolactone. To make sure the medication is safe for you if you have heart or kidney disease, it is imperative that you contact a doctor immediately.
PS: Spironolactone isn’t always recommended for those who are on dialysis.
According to a number of studies from the U.S. National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine, they came to the conclusion that an adequate daily water intake is roughly 15½ cups for men and 11½ cups for women. As you can see, this is more than the recommended eight glasses per day.
As stated earlier, Spironolactone is a diuretic, which means it helps your body get rid of excess water and salt. This can lead to dehydration if you don’t drink enough fluids. Drinking plenty of water will help prevent dehydration and keep your body functioning properly.
In addition, drinking plenty of water can help reduce the side effects of spironolactone. These side effects include dry mouth, thirst, dizziness, and headaches. Drinking plenty of fluids can help alleviate these symptoms.
So how much water should you drink when taking spironolactone? There’s no hard and fast rule, but aim for eight glasses of water per day. This will help ensure that you stay hydrated and avoid any potential side effects from the medication.
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Useful Tips To Help Stay Hydrated While Taking Spironolactone
Below are some useful tips you need to take note to help you stay hydrated while taking Spironolactone;
-Keep a water intake journal to monitor your progress.
-Set a timer or alarm to remind you when to drink water.
-Reduce your intake of alcohol and caffeine, which can be incredibly dehydrating.
-Stay hydrated all day long by having a bottle water on hand at all times.
-Consume produce that are high in water content, like cucumbers, celery or watermelons.
Bottom Line
We hope this article has helped clear up some of the confusion around how much water you should drink when taking spironolactone. Remember, always speak to your doctor if you have any questions or concerns about your medication and follow their advice. Drink plenty of water every day, stay hydrated, and stay healthy!