Potassium-sparing diuretic (water pill)
Last reviewed June 2026
Who is this for?
Spironolactone is a water pill (diuretic) that helps your body get rid of extra water and salt while keeping potassium levels from dropping too low — it works by blocking a hormone called aldosterone that normally makes your body hold onto salt and water.
Blocks aldosterone receptors in the collecting duct of the nephron, preventing sodium reabsorption and potassium excretion, thereby promoting sodium and water loss while retaining potassium.
Prescription Required
You need a doctor's prescription to buy this drug.
Explore this drug
For high blood pressure, the usual starting dose is one 25 mg tablet once or twice daily, which your doctor may increase up to 100 mg daily depending on your response. Take it with food to help your body absorb it better and reduce stomach upset. It is best to take it in the morning or afternoon — avoid taking it at night so you are not waking up frequently to urinate.
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember — but if it is close to the time for your next dose, skip the missed one and continue as normal. Do not take two doses at once to make up for it.
Only buy from a licensed pharmacy — brands like Spinotone, Zoractone, Alpadactone, or Bedex Spironolactone are available in Nigeria, so make sure the packaging is intact and not expired. Do not share this medicine with someone else who has swelling or high blood pressure, as it requires proper medical tests before use. Your doctor should check your potassium levels and kidney function regularly while you are on this drug, so keep your follow-up appointments.
Do not take spironolactone with potassium supplements or potassium-rich salt substitutes — combining them can cause dangerously high potassium levels. Be careful using it alongside painkillers like ibuprofen or diclofenac (very common in Nigeria), as these can reduce how well spironolactone works and harm your kidneys. Avoid excessive alcohol as it can worsen dizziness and low blood pressure.
Check your specific combination
Is it safe to take Spironolactone with your other drugs?
Spironolactone is NOT safe during pregnancy as it can seriously harm the unborn baby, and breastfeeding mothers should also avoid it — talk to your doctor about safer alternatives.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat — Nigerian weather can be very hot, so avoid leaving it in your car or near a window. Keep the tablets in their original container and far out of children's reach.
For information only — not medical advice. Always talk to a doctor or pharmacist before changing your medication.
Names this drug is sold under — especially in Nigerian and West African pharmacies
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Counterfeit Drug Warning
Fake drugs are a serious problem in Nigeria. Always buy from a registered pharmacy. If the packaging looks different from what is described above, do not use it.
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