Eplerenone is often used to treat high blood pressure, as well as congestive heart failure following a heart attack. It is known for helping to regulate aldosterone, which is a hormone that keeps the blood pressure normal. Use of this drug typically requires regular monitoring of the blood pressure to ensure that it is working, since hypertension has few symptoms, which means that frequent doctor visits can be expected during the course of treatment. It is prescription-only, and has the ability to change the potassium levels in the body, which is why it is also important that the levels of this nutrient be checked frequently during treatment.
Not everyone can safely take eplerenone, as there are some conditions that make it dangerous. For example, those with type 2 diabetes, kidney or liver disease, high potassium levels, or high cholesterol, should likely avoid this drug since these conditions may not interact well with eplerenone. Additionally, those taking other medications need to let their doctor know since this drug may react badly when combined with some drugs, including itraconazole, nefazodone, ketoconazole, and ritonavir, though this is not a complete listing. While pregnant women can typically take eplerenone without negative effects on the unborn baby, it is unknown how it affects a nursing baby, so breastfeeding mothers should talk to their doctor before taking this drug.
This medication can be harmful when a patient overdoses, with symptoms that range from a weak, slow pulse and muscle weakness to dizziness and fainting. Therefore, those who miss a dose should avoid doubling up to make up for it. Instead, they should take the next scheduled dose. It is also important to avoid taking potassium supplements and substitutes for salt during treatment with eplerenone, as a negative reaction could occur.
In fact, high potassium can result as a severe side effect of this drug, usually requiring that the patient seek medical attention and discontinue use of the medication. The symptoms of this condition include weakened pulse, tingling, and a weak feeling in the muscles. On the other hand, some patients may notice symptoms of low potassium, such as increased thirst and urination, weakness in the muscles, heart palpitations, and confusion. Less serious effects of eplerenone may be flu symptoms, such as cough, fever, aching body, and chills. Other mild side effects of eplerenone include stomach pain, diarrhea, fatigue, dizziness, and vaginal swelling, or breast tenderness in women.
