5 replies to this topic

[CalypsoStorm]

I've heard that there is the possibility that a person's potassium levels can rise while on Spironolactone so it's best to avoid or limit foods high in potassium but how does one do that when there is potassium in almost every food out there?

I had started this pill yesterday and after reading up on foods that are high in potassium, it seems like the only thing I can live off of is water because so many foods contain potassium. Wth? Are we all suppose to become anorexic once we start using Spiro so we don't consume to much potassium?

I'd really appreciate some insight on this.

Thank you.

[hatesacne]

I've heard that there is the possibility that a person's potassium levels can rise while on Spironolactone so it's best to avoid or limit foods high in potassium but how does one do that when there is potassium in almost every food out there?

I had started this pill yesterday and after reading up on foods that are high in potassium, it seems like the only thing I can live off of is water because so many foods contain potassium. Wth? Are we all suppose to become anorexic once we start using Spiro so we don't consume to much potassium?

I'd really appreciate some insight on this.

Thank you.

CalypsoStorm:I, too, was concerned w/the potassium level. However, after expressing my concern to my derm, he assured me that it's not really crucial, unless you're unhealthy(have kidney problems or something). His office used to be located next to an endocrinologist's office. The endo accused him of being too paranoid by checking women's potassium levels too often. The main concern is to avoid excessive amounts of foods high in potassium such as: potatoes, bananas, spinach, etc. Also make sure to drink plenty of fluids to avoid dehydration. I was very concerned about my electrolyte level. So I bought a case of vitamin water and try to drink, at least, one of those/day. If you eat a healthy diet of fruits, vegetables, grains, nuts, etc., you should be fine. I've been taking spiro for over 2 months and I think my levels are alright. However, my bp was lower than my last visit (which was in August before I began taking spiro) when I went to the ob/gyn on Mon. 11/21/08, for a follow-up to determine whether or not I'll need surgery. Not too low to be concerned though, and I mentioned I was taking spiro. Try not to over-think it and you'll be fine. If you have concerns, express them the next time you see your derm or call his/her office and talk to the nurse. Hopefully, this info has helped "to put your mind at ease."

[Wynne]

You don't have to give up foods with K+ just not eat them excessively, in other words, don't eat three bananas at once, eat perhaps one a day.

Your doctor might order regular routine lab values checked to make sure your metabolic and electrolyte profiles are behaving. Your doctor will tell you when/if you need those labs.

[CalypsoStorm]

Reading your posts definitely makes me feel better. I'm suppose to go back to my doctor(my endocrinologist put me on these pills) in April but I think I might ask to get tested in about six weeks just to see how things are going.

Thank you!

[peachy_D225]

I've been taking 200 mg spiro for over 2 years now. I haven't changed my diet whatsoever (i.e., i eat all the potassium i want), and have never had an elevated level on my bloodwork.

[CalypsoStorm]

I've been taking 200 mg spiro for over 2 years now. I haven't changed my diet whatsoever (i.e., i eat all the potassium i want), and have never had an elevated level on my bloodwork.

Wow! That's great!

I often wonder what the chances of people's K levels rising when they have no health problems and are not taking a ton of medications for things like high blood pressure, etc.