Aldactone (25mg)

What is Aldactone (25mg) by RPG?

Aldactone (25mg) is a spironolactone tablet distributed under the RPG name: 30 tablets with 25 mg of spironolactone each. Spironolactone is a prescription diuretic of the potassium-sparing type. It works by blocking the receptor for aldosterone, the adrenal hormone that tells the kidneys to hold on to sodium and water and to get rid of potassium. With aldosterone blocked, more salt and water leave the body while potassium stays in.

The drug has a second, less obvious action that matters to male athletes: it is also a weak anti-androgen. It partly blocks the androgen receptor and can reduce testosterone production. That is why doctors use it for some hormonal conditions in women, and why it can feminize men at higher doses.

What is spironolactone used for?

Common medical uses include:

• heart failure, where it improves survival when added to standard treatment;
• high blood pressure that does not respond well to other drugs;
• fluid build-up from liver cirrhosis, kidney disease or heart disease;
• primary hyperaldosteronism, an adrenal disorder;
• acne, excess facial and body hair, and polycystic ovary syndrome in women.

Although it sits next to post-cycle products on our site, Aldactone (25mg) does not restart natural testosterone production. In bodybuilding it is mainly used to shed subcutaneous water before a show, a practice that has led to severe dehydration and dangerous heart rhythm problems, and is prohibited in tested sport.

How is it taken?

For heart failure, treatment often begins at 25 mg once a day. For blood pressure and fluid retention the usual range is 25 to 100 mg a day, in one dose or split, while doses for acne or excess hair growth in women are often somewhat higher. It can be taken with or without food, as long as this is done the same way every day, and the full effect builds over several days rather than hours. Potassium and kidney function are checked with blood tests shortly after starting and regularly afterwards. The dose and how long it is taken must be agreed with a qualified medical professional.

Possible side effects

The most serious risk is hyperkalemia, too much potassium in the blood, which can cause muscle weakness and an irregular heartbeat. The risk rises with kidney problems and with ACE inhibitors, angiotensin receptor blockers, potassium supplements, salt substitutes and some painkillers. Other effects include dizziness, low blood pressure, low sodium, dehydration and stomach upset. Men may develop breast tenderness, gynecomastia, lower libido and erection problems; women may have irregular periods. It is not for people with high potassium, severe kidney disease or Addison's disease, and not during pregnancy.

Package information

Aldactone (25mg) from RPG comes as a pack of 30 tablets with 25 mg spironolactone in each. It can be ordered on MaxLabs.co.