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Aldosterone Blockers

How they work: Possible Side effects: Special Notes:

Aldosterone is a hormone that is critical in regulating the body's balance of salt and water. Excessive levels may play important roles in hypertension and heart failure. Additional agents that block this hormone are being developed. The actions of aldosterone blockers are similar to potassium-sparing diuretics, and like these agents, it poses some risk for high potassium levels, which in some cases can be dangerous.

Call your provider if you experience any of the following:
  • headache
  • dizziness
  • diarrhea
  • stomach pain
  • cough
  • excessive tiredness
  • flu-like symptoms
  • breast enlargement or tenderness
  • abnormal vaginal bleeding

Some side effects can be serious. The following symptoms are uncommon, but if you experience any of them, call your doctor immediately:

  • chest pain
  • tingling in arms and legs
  • loss of muscle tone
  • weakness or heaviness in legs
  • confusion
  • lack of energy
  • cold, gray skin
  • irregular heartbeat

Tell your provider and pharmacist if you are allergic to any medications.

Tell your provider and pharmacist what other prescription and nonprescription medications, vitamins, and nutritional supplements you are taking.

Tell your provider what herbal products you are taking, especially St. John's wort.

Tell your provider if you have or have ever had high blood levels of potassium, diabetes, gout, or liver or kidney disease.

Tell your provider if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding. If you become pregnant while taking this medication, call your provider.

 

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