Dr. Davis prescribes spironolactone, an aldosterone receptor antagonist, and cou

Question

Dr. Davis prescribes spironolactone, an aldosterone receptor antagonist, and counsels the patient on lifestyle changes. He also refers her to a liver specialist before discharging her. However, Mrs. Fender’s parting remarks suggest she will not be changing her habits or visiting a more expensive medical professional any time soon. One possible side effect of spironolactone is hyperkalemia. Define the term hyperkalemia and explain why blocking the effects of aldosterone in the kidney would cause hyperkalemia. Cite your answer source or if taking from textbook in APA format eg: Marieb, Elaine M. Human Anatomy and Physiology, 8 th Edition.

Explanation / Answer

Answer

The increased level of potassium in the blood more than normal is called hyperkalemia.

The spironolactone is used as a diuretic by inhibition of aldosterone actions on collecting tubules. Normally, the aldosterone regulates the reabsorption of sodium and secretion of potassium in the collecting tubules. The increased reabsorption of sodium through sodium channels causes the increased excretion of potassium. The increase reabsorption of sodium can be facilitated in the following way

The so formed released aldosterone enters the cells of collecting ducts and binds to aldosterone receptors. This complex moves into the nucleus and produces aldosterone induced proteins. these proteins increase number sodium channels for reabsorption and elimination of potassium ions.

If administering the spironolactone, it blocks the action of aldosterone and decreases sodium reabsorption and increase elimination. This leads to the decreased elimination of potassium and increases the plasma concentration potassium. This condition is called Hyperkalaemia.

So, the spironolactone produces hyperkalemia.

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