GENERIC NAME: EPLERENONE - ORAL (eh-PLER-en-own)
BRAND NAME(S): Inspra
Medication Uses | How To Use | Side Effects | Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes | Missed Dose | Storage | Medical Alert
USES: This medication is used alone or in combination with other medicines to treat high blood pressure. It works by blocking a chemical (aldosterone) in your body which in turn lowers the amount of sodium and water the body retains. Lowering high blood pressure helps prevent strokes, heart attacks and kidney problems. It is also used to treat congestive heart failure following a heart attack.
HOW TO USE: Take this medication by mouth, usually once or twice daily, with or without food; or as directed by your doctor. The dosage is based on your medical condition (high blood pressure, congestive heart failure) and response to therapy. Use this medication regularly in order to get the most benefit from it. Remember to use it at the same time(s) each day. It is important to continue taking this medication even if you feel well. Most people with high blood pressure do not feel sick. It may take up to 4 weeks for this medication to take full effect on your blood pressure.
SIDE EFFECTS: Headache, dizziness, diarrhea, stomach pain, nausea, cough or flu-like symptoms (e.g., fever, chills, unusual tiredness) may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor or pharmacist promptly. Tell your doctor immediately if any of these unlikely but serious side effects occur: abnormal vaginal bleeding, enlarged or sore breasts in males, mental/mood changes, chest pain. This medication can raise your body's potassium levels. Potassium blood levels should be checked periodically while you take this drug. If not treated, high potassium levels can lead to very serious (rarely fatal) heart rhythms. Tell your doctor immediately if you develop any of the following symptoms: severe muscle weakness, irregular heartbeat. A serious allergic reaction to this drug is unlikely, but seek immediate medical attention if it occurs. Symptoms of a serious allergic reaction include: rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, trouble breathing. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
Report Problems to the Food and Drug Administration
You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit the FDA MedWatch website or call 1-800-FDA-1088.
- Electrolytes - Read about blood electrolytes (sodium, potassium, chloride, and bicorbonate) and the effects of electrolyte imbalances like kidney failure, low blood pressure, hypokalemia, and hyperkalemia.
- Congestive Heart Failure - Read about congestive heart failure symptoms like fatigue, abdomen, leg and ankle swelling, shortness of breath, sleeplessness, increased urination, nausea, abdominal pain, and decreased appetite.
- High Blood Pressure - Learn about high blood pressure symptoms like headache, dizziness, shortness of breath, blurred vision and more. Causes, and normal blood pressure information is included.
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