Spironolactone (Aldactone)
7α-(acetylthio)-17α-hydroxy-3-oxo-17α-pregn-4-ene-21-carboxylic acid γ-lactone. Diuretic, potassium-sparing diuretic / aldosterone antagonist.
This page describes what Spironolactone (Aldactone) is and its known risks. It is not medical advice and not a guide to using it. Many of these substances are prescription-only or illegal to use without a prescription. Speak to a doctor.
- Class
- Diuretic
- Legal status
- Prescription only
- Half-life
- 1.5 hours (active metabolite ~20 hours)
- Liver strain
- Low
- Kidney strain
- Low-Moderate
- Converts to estrogen
- None
- Suppresses natural hormones
- Not typically
Medical uses
- Hypertension
- Heart failure
- Hyperaldosteronism
- Hormonal acne (women)
What it does in the body
Other
- Mild-moderate fluid loss without significant potassium depletion (potassium-sparing)
Forms, half-life and detection
| Form | Half-life | Reported detection window |
|---|---|---|
| Oral | 1.5 hours (active metabolite ~20 hours) | Unknown |
Side effects and health risks
Hormones and fertility
- Anti-androgenic effects (reduced libido, gynecomastia risk in men — it blocks androgen receptors)
Metabolic
- Hyperkalemia risk (elevated potassium, especially if combined with other potassium-sparing drugs)
Other
- Dizziness
- Fatigue
Related compounds
Questions
What is the half-life of Spironolactone (Aldactone)?
About 1.5 hours (active metabolite ~20 hours). Half-life is the time for the level in the blood to fall by half.
How long is Spironolactone (Aldactone) detectable?
Testing windows of Unknown are reported, depending on the test and the person.
Is Spironolactone (Aldactone) legal?
Prescription only. Laws differ by country and change; check the rules where you live.
What blood tests matter with Spironolactone (Aldactone)?
Ask a doctor which tests suit you.
What are the side effects of Spironolactone (Aldactone)?
Hormones and fertility: anti-androgenic effects (reduced libido, gynecomastia risk in men — it blocks androgen receptors). Metabolic: hyperkalemia risk (elevated potassium, especially if combined with other potassium-sparing drugs). Other: dizziness and fatigue.
For information only, not medical advice. MyoStats is a tracking tool used at your own discretion. Speak to a doctor before changing your training, diet, medication or anything you take.