Aldactazide

What Is Aldactazide?

Aldactazide^® (spironolactone-HCTZ) is a prescription medicine that is used as a diuretic to treat high blood pressure and fluid retention. It is a combination of two diuretic medications: spironolactone and hydrochlorothiazide (HCTZ).

 

Who Makes It?

Brand-name Aldactazide is made by Pfizer. Generic versions are made by a few different manufacturers.

 

What Is Aldactazide Used For?

Specific uses of Aldactazide include:

 

 

 

 

How Does It Work?

Aldactazide is a diuretic, which is commonly referred to as a "water pill." It contains two diuretics that work together to keep electrolytes in balance. Hydrochlorothiazide, while effective, often causes low potassium levels in the blood.

 

On the other hand, spironolactone is a "potassium-sparing" diuretic, meaning that it can actually increase potassium levels in the blood. When taken together, these medications balance each other out.

 

The spironolactone component of Aldactazide is known as an "aldosterone antagonist," which means it blocks aldosterone receptors. Aldosterone is a hormone in the body that causes water retention. By blocking aldosterone (and through the actions of hydrochlorothiazide, the other component), Aldactazide increases the amount of salt and water that the kidneys remove from the blood. This extra salt and water is then passed out through the urine.

 

By increasing the amount of water removed from the blood, Aldactazide causes a decrease in blood volume. Because of this effect, the drug can lower blood pressure and can also help with water retention.