Will lowering my dose of Spiro help with my fast heart rate I started having?

Patient EM0705,

Yes, the rapid heart rate that you were experiencing could have been secondary to starting the Spironolactone orally, as this a diuretic that suppresses the hormone DHEA & can lower your blood pressure, in result increasing your resting heart rate at times.  In our office when treating our patients with Spironolactone we start a majority of patients on the 50mg dose, but some patients do better with starting at a lower dose, such as 25mg daily & if tolerated increase to 50mg daily 2 weeks later as your body adjusts.  We try to titrate the dose that helps with the Acne, but produces the least amount of side effects.

I would try increasing your water intake and restart at 25mg, only after notifying your provider of your side effects.  Very important to report this side effect and any the prescriber and only restarting if they feel it is appropriate after reviewing your side effects and other medications in detail.

I hope this helps!

Dr. Sherry Maragh, MD.