Function

• According to HealthlinkBC, "Aldosterone receptor antagonists are the only diuretics that improve survival for people with heart failure." A significant factor of Aldosterone is that it retains potassium in the body unlike other diuretics that remove potassium via the urine. Aldosterone is available in cream, tablet or injection form.
  
  

Side Effects

• The side effects of Aldosterone may include a skin rash along with symptoms related to the gastrointestinal system, the possibility of a high potassium level and some symptoms related to the reproductive system. Gastrointestinal side effects include symptoms of abdominal tenderness and cramping, nausea and vomiting as well as bloating, diarrhea and a feeling of thirst.
  
  

Hyperkalemia

• Hyperkalemia is an increase in the potassium level in the blood. The normal potassium blood levels for an adult ranges from 3.5 to 5.5 milli-equivalents (mEq) per liter of blood. Usually there are no symptoms with hyperkalemia. However when symptoms occur they include, nausea, an irregular heartbeat, a weak or slow pulse or the absence of a pulse.
  
  

Reproductive System

• Side effects related to the reproductive system may include abnormalities with the menstrual cycle, deepening of the voice, as well as problems related to erection and enlargement of the breast in men.
  
  

Considerations

• Due to the possible side effect of hyperkalemia, Aldosterone is usually started at a low dose with a gradual increase to the required dosage. Monitoring of the potassium level in the blood is of utmost importance during treatment. It is usually recommended to avoid adding foods rich in potassium to the diet. Foods high in potassium include carrots, dairy products, fish, meat and poultry.
  
  

Research

• According to the Journal of the Royal Society of Medicine, a study regarding the Limitations of Non-Selective Aldosterone Receptor Blockade found that although spironolactone is an effective anti-aldosterone agent, its widespread use in patients is limited by its undesirable side effects. In standard doses it causes impotence and breast enlargement in men and menstrual disturbances in women. These side effects are reversible and dose related.