Written by Dr. Feargus McConnell, BVSc on the Jan.16, 2024
Petdirect is dedicated to providing educational pet health content for pet parents. This article was written and reviewed by veterinary professionals to answer common questions about your pet’s medication. Our focus is on delivering unbiased information to help you understand how medication works, its potential side effects, and FAQs for your reference. Always administer medication directly as prescribed by your vet. This article shouldn’t take the place of advice from your vet.
Spiractin, contains Spironolactone as the active ingredient and is a diuretic used to lower blood pressure and treat fluid build up in the body. It is a human medication and may be prescribed off-label by vets. It helps to reduce the amount of water in the body. It is typically used alongside other medication to help manage congestive heart failure, and it may also be used to treat fluid buildup in the abdomen. Additionally, it has shown promising results in treating high blood pressure and kidney disease.
This medication belongs to a class known as potassium-sparing diuretics. Diuretics help reduce swelling by eliminating fluid from the body through urine. Spiractin functions in the kidneys, expelling sodium and excess fluid into the urine while conserving vital electrolytes like potassium. In CHF cases, the heart's decreased ability to pump blood effectively leads to fluid accumulation, particularly in the lungs and around other body organs. By promoting the excretion of this excess fluid via Spiractin’s diuretic action it reduces the workload on the heart and alleviates symptoms associated with fluid buildups, such as difficulty breathing and swelling.
Spiractin should be administered as per the vet's instructions. It is best given with food to enhance absorption. Increased thirst and urination are common after starting this medication, so ensure your pet has access to fresh water.
Missed Dose:
If you miss a dose, consult your veterinarian. They might suggest giving the missed dose as soon as you remember or skipping it if the next scheduled dose is near.
Overdose:
Signs of an overdose may include vomiting, low blood pressure, increased thirst and urination, incoordination, dry gums, dehydration, lethargy, and weakness. In such cases, contact your vet immediately or reach out to the New Zealand National Poisons Centre at www.poisons.co.nz/animal-helpline/ or phone 0800 869 738.
Hypersensitivity: Pets with a known allergy to spironolactone should not be given this medication.
Hyperkalemia: Pets with high potassium levels in the blood should not receive spironolactone, as it can further increase potassium levels, leading to dangerous heart rhythms.
Renal Failure: In pets with significant renal impairment, spironolactone may not be appropriate due to its potassium-sparing effects, which can exacerbate existing hyperkalemia and further impair renal function.
Addison's Disease (Hypoadrenocorticism): Pets with Addison's disease may already have elevated potassium levels, and spironolactone can worsen this condition.
Pregnancy and Lactation: The safety of spironolactone in pregnant or lactating pets has not been well established. It should be used with caution and only when the benefits outweigh the risks.
Concurrent use with other Potassium-Sparing Diuretics: Using spironolactone in conjunction with other potassium-sparing diuretics can increase the risk of hyperkalemia.
Severe Liver Disease: Since spironolactone is metabolized in the liver, pets with severe liver disease may have an increased risk of adverse effects due to impaired drug metabolism.
While this medication is generally well-tolerated, it may cause side effects that can vary in severity and frequency. Common side effects include increased drinking and urination, mild electrolyte imbalances, and vomiting/diarrhea. Serious side effects include rash/skin sores, persistent vomiting/diarrhea, fast heartbeat, difficulty walking, collapse, lack of appetite, or reduced urination. Breast tissue growth may occur in males.
Store Spiractin at controlled room temperatures and keep it away from moisture and direct sunlight. For safety keep out of reach of children and other pets.
Your vet may suggest specific monitoring or tests while your pet is on this medication. Contact your vet if you observe severe side effects, worsening of your pet's condition, suspect an overdose, or have additional concerns.
Is Spiractin a diuretic for pets?
Can I give my pet human-prescribed Spiractin?
What is the difference between Spiractin and Furosemide?
We hope this article provides a clear understanding of Spiractin for your pet. Remember, always seek advice from your veterinarian for any health-related decisions for your pets.