What is the brand name for Spironolactone?
The brand name for Spironolactone is Aldactone.
PTCE Top 200 · #52
Spironolactone
Aldactone
Spironolactone is the generic name for the brand-name drug Aldactone. It is an aldosterone antagonist (k-sparing diuretic) used to treat HF, edema, ↑aldosterone. On the PTCE Top 200 drug list, Spironolactone ranks #52 and is one of the most frequently tested cardiovascular medications — commonly quizzed on its brand–generic pair, drug class, and key side effects.
| Generic name | Spironolactone |
|---|---|
| Brand name(s) | Aldactone |
| Drug class | Aldosterone antagonist (K-sparing diuretic) |
| Class group | Cardiovascular |
| Common use | HF, edema, ↑aldosterone |
| DEA schedule | Unscheduled |
| Availability | Prescription only (Rx) |
What is Spironolactone used for?
• Heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF) to reduce morbidity/mortality (select patients). • Hypertension (often add-on). • Edema due to cirrhosis or nephrotic syndrome. • Primary hyperaldosteronism; hypokalemia.
What drug class is Spironolactone?
Spironolactone is an Aldosterone antagonist (K-sparing diuretic) in the Cardiovascular group. Knowing the class is the fastest way to predict its uses, side effects, and the brand↔generic pairs the PTCE tests.
Common side effects of Spironolactone
- arrow_rightHyperkalemia
- arrow_rightGynecomastia/breast tenderness
- arrow_rightMenstrual irregularities
- arrow_rightDizziness
Major interactions
- arrow_rightACE inhibitors/ARBs, potassium supplements, other K-sparing diuretics ↑ hyperkalemia risk
- arrow_rightNSAIDs may reduce diuretic effect and ↑ renal dysfunction/hyperkalemia
- arrow_rightDigoxin levels may be affected (monitor)
- arrow_rightLithium: diuretics may ↑ lithium levels/toxicity
Is Spironolactone a controlled substance?
No. Spironolactone is not a federally controlled substance (it is unscheduled by the DEA).
How to remember Spironolactone (PTCE mnemonic)
AldACTONE blocks AldOsterone — spironolactone SPAREs K+. ↑K+ (no ACE/ARB combo), gynecomastia in men, irregular menses in women.
lightbulb
PTCE exam tip
Spironolactone is a potassium-SPARING diuretic — the opposite of HCTZ/furosemide. Watch for HIGH potassium, especially with ACE inhibitors or ARBs.
Spironolactone FAQ
What is Spironolactone used for?
Spironolactone is used to treat HF, edema, ↑aldosterone. • Heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF) to reduce morbidity/mortality (select patients). • Hypertension (often add-on). • Edema due to cirrhosis or nephrotic syndrome. • Primary hyperaldosteronism; hypokalemia.
What drug class is Spironolactone?
Spironolactone is an Aldosterone antagonist (K-sparing diuretic) (Cardiovascular group).
Is Spironolactone a controlled substance?
No. Spironolactone is not a federally controlled substance (it is unscheduled by the DEA).
Related drugs in the Cardiovascular group
Drill Spironolactone the way the PTCE asks it
RxReflex turns the Top 200 drugs into fast flashcard rounds, a guided Learn path, pharmacy math, and 40+ cheat sheets. Free to start.
Last reviewed June 25, 2026. Educational use only — not medical advice. Verify clinical specifics with your pharmacist or a current label source such as DailyMed. RxReflex is not affiliated with or endorsed by the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB).