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Spironolactone in Veterinary Medicine - Facts and Information

Spironolactone

Updated on October 31, 2024

Aldosterone antagonist used as a potassium sparing diuretic to decrease excessive water in the body that can worsen signs of congestive heart failure.

Spironolactone

Summary

Used For: Congestive heart failure in dogs and cats, adjunctive treatment for hypertension in cats

Brands: Aldactone®, Tempora®, Prilactone®

Species: Dogs and cats

Drug type: Diuretic

Prescription required: Yes

Pregnancy and lactation: Crosses the placenta, may have fetal risk. Crosses into milk, use with caution

Side effects: Gastrointestinal upset including anorexia, electrolyte imbalances, dehydration, lethargy, ataxia

General description

Spironolactone is an aldosterone antagonist that is used as a potassium sparing diuretic in dogs or cats that develop low potassium on other diuretic medications. It can be used as adjunctive treatment in congestive heart failure in dogs and cats, and is used as an adjunctive treatment for hypertension in cats. Use in animals is extra-label in the United States; veterinary labeled products available in other countries. [Buy Spironolactone now on Petco.](https://www.petco.com/shop/en/petcostore/brand/spironolactone) A prescription from your veterinarian is needed to purchase.

Uses

Spironolactone may be used as an adjunctive diuretic in the treatment of congestive heart failure, but its use is controversial in dogs. It can also be effective as an adjunctive treatment for hypertension (high blood pressure) in cats.

How it works

Spironolactone blocks aldosterone (a hormone) in the distal tubules of the kidneys, resulting in increased excretion of sodium, chloride and water.

Dosage

Dogs: 0.5-4 milligrams per kilogram orally every 12-24 hours. Cats: 1-2 milligrams per kilogram orally every 12 hours.

Forms

No veterinary forms are available in the US, but may be available in other countries. Tablets for oral use in 10 milligram, 25 milligram, 40 milligram, 50 milligram, 80 milligram, and 100 milligram sizes. Chewable tablets for oral use available in 10 milligram, 50 milligram, and 100 milligram sizes. Combination oral tablets of spironolactone/benazepril and spironolactone/hydrochlorothiazide are available.

Storage information & handling

Keep in a childproof, light resistant container at room temperature away from children and pets.

What results can I expect?

May cause increase in water consumption and urination volume, and decrease ofclinical signs associated with congestive heart failure.

Missed Dosage

If you miss a dose, give the next dose as soon as possible. If it is almost time for the next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose, and give itat the regularly scheduled time. Do not give two doses at once.

Overdose / acute toxicity

If you suspect that your pet has ingested an overdose, contact animal poison control. Information about overdoses of spironolactone is unavailable.

Side effects

*Gastrointestinal upset, including anorexia and vomiting *Electrolyte imbalances *Dehydration *Occasional neurological signs such as lethargy and ataxia (uncoordinated gait) *Facial dermatitis in cats

Contraindications

*Use with caution in patients with pre-existing liver or kidney diseases *Do not use in patients with anuria, kidney failure, hyperkalemia, or Addison’s disease *Avoid use in pregnant or lactating animals

Drug interactions

Always consult your veterinarian before using spironolactone with any other medication, including vitamins and supplements. Increased potassium is possible if spironolactone is given with potassium supplements or other potassium sparing diuretics. Aspirin and other salicylates, digoxin and mitotane may interact with spironolactone.

Precaution

Patient with impaired liver or kidney function. Avoid use in pregnant or lactating animals. Do not administer in conjunction with certain drugs.

Sources

Plumb’s Veterinary Drug Handbook

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Disclaimer

The information contained on this page is for educational purposes only. This medication should only be given under the advice of a veterinarian who has examined your pet under the laws applicable to your state of residence.