Eplerenone
Diuretic · Aldosterone antagonist
Indications
Adjunct in stable patients with left ventricular dysfunction with evidence of heart failure, following myocardial infarction (start therapy within 3-14 days of event).
Dosage
Adults: Initially 25 mg once daily, increased within 4 wk to 50 mg once daily. Children: Not recommended.
Adverse Effects
Diarrhoea, nausea, flatulence, vomiting, hypotension, dizziness, hyperkalaemia, rash, atrial fibrillation, postural hypotension, arterial thrombosis, dyslipidaemia, pharyngitis, headache, insomnia, gynaecomastia, pyelonephritis, hyponatraemia, dehydration, eosinophilia, asthaenia, malaise, back pain, leg cramps, impaired renal function, azotaemia, sweating, hypercholesterolaemia, syncope, GI upset, left ventricular failure, atrial fibrillation, cough, pruritus, muscle spasms, raised blood urea and creatinine.
Risk Factor (Pregnancy/Lactation)
Pregnancy: Risk cannot be ruled out. Lactation: Caution advised or effect undetermined. Contraindications: Concomitant use of potassium-sparing diuretics or potassium supplements. Hyperkalaemia. Severe hepatic or renal impairment. Precautions: Monitor plasma potassium concentration before, during and after treatment. Elderly.
Interactions
ACE inhibitors, angiotensin II antagonists, potassium sparing diuretics, potassium supplements, CYP3A4 inhibitors or inducers, NSAIDs, lithium, cyclosporin, tacrolimus, trimethoprim, angiotensin II antagonists, alpha one blockers, TCADs, antipsychotics, amifostine, baclofen, digoxin, warfarin, glucocorticoids, tetracosactide.
Advice to Patient
Take with or without meals at the same time each day. Contact prescriber if there is chest pain, palpitations, unusual cough or flu-like symptoms. Avoid potassium containing supplements or salt substitutes. Change position slowly.
Pharmacokinetics
Metabolism: Hepatic. Bioavailability: 100 mg tab: Absolute: 69%. Half-life elimination: 4-6 hrs. Time to peak, plasma: Oral: 1.5-2 hrs. Excretion: Faeces (32%). Urine (67%).
Brands with this active ingredient
Compiled by Healify Pharmacy from published drug references. How we compile it →
Always consult a pharmacist or doctor.