What are the side effects of spironolactone on women?

About 10% of all patients treated for hypertension have what is described as resistant hypertension. Spironolactone can be used in patients to safely and effectively manage blood pressure in people who are suffering with resistant hypertension. This drug is often turned to when other first line antihypertensive drugs have not been able to effectively manage your condition. Spironolactone has shown some positive results when used alone. The more common method of therapy is in conjunction with first-line hypertensive therapies, including diuretics.



This medication in the long term has diuretic effects, meaning regular trips to the bathroom, and changes in menstrual cycles in women. Consult with your medical physician regarding the types and actions of various hypertensive medications, other alternatives, and potential side effects of these medications. 

Reports of the following side effects are common after taking this medication:

• Changes in menstrual cycle
• Brest pain
• Headaches.
• Diarrhea
• Abdominal cramps
• Fatigue.
• Dizziness.
• Nausea and potentially vomiting.
• Itchy skin.
• Cramps in muscles, often the legs.

Consult with a medical practitioner should these side effects arise and persist for 2-3 days.