Sample Pharm Exam Questions
Which of the following foods are most likely to interfere with aldactone (spironolactone)?
A.
Cheddar cheese
B.
Kale and broccoli
C.
Bananas and tomatoes (KEY)
D.
Beer and wine
Explanation:
Aldactone is a potassium-sparing diuretic used to treat low potassium levels and conditions in
which the body makes excessive natural aldosterone. Aldosterone is a naturally occurring
hormone in the body that regulates electrolyte balance by increasing renal retention of sodium
and excretion of potassium. Consequently, patients taking aldactone are advised to limit their
intake of foods high in potassium such as bananas, tomatoes, potatoes and low-salt milk. The
other foods listed in the answer choices are unlikely to affect intravascular potassium levels.
[1.8: Narrow therapeutic index (NTI) medications]
References:
1 AHFS Drug Information 2020. Snow EK, ed. Spironolactone. American Society of HealthSystem Pharmacists; 2020.
2. Overdiek HWPM, Merkus FWHM. Influence of food on the bioavailability of
spironolactone. Clin Pharmacol Ther. 1986; 40:531-6.
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/-?dopt=AbstractPlus
3. Pfizer. Aldactazide (spironolactone with hydrochlorothiazide) tabletss prescribing information.
New York, NY; 2019 Jan.
4. Pitt B, Zannad F, Remme WJ et al. The effect of spironolactone on morbidity and mortality in
patients with severe heart failure. N Engl J Med. 1999; 341(10):709-17.
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/-?dopt=AbstractPlus