Inspra

Pronounced: IN-sprah
Generic name: Eplerenone

Why is Inspra prescribed?

Inspra is prescribed to improve survival in patients who have congestive heart failure and left ventricular systolic dysfunction following a heart attack. It is also used to treat high blood pressure. Inspra may be used alone or with other antihypertensive agents. Inspra lowers blood pressure by blocking the actions of the hormone aldosterone.

Most important fact about Inspra

Inspra can increase the levels of potassium in your blood, resulting in a potentially serious condition called "hyperkalemia." Your doctor will order periodic blood tests to check the amount of potassium in your blood. Be sure to avoid potassium supplements and salt substitutes that contain potassium. Make sure your doctor knows about every medication you are taking. Call your doctor immediately if you experience nausea, diarrhea, or weakness, as these may be signs of hyperkalemia.

How should you take Inspra?

Take Inspra exactly as prescribed; higher-than-recommended doses provide no additional benefit. Inspra may be taken with or without food.

--If you miss a dose...

Take the forgotten dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the one you missed and return to your regular schedule. Do not take two doses at once.

--Storage instructions...

Store at room temperature.

What side effects may occur?

Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, tell your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe to continue using Inspra.

• More common side effects may include:
  Chest pain, dizziness, headache, high cholesterol and triglyceride levels, increased blood potassium level, increased risk for heart attack, kidney problems

This side effects list is not complete. If you have any questions about side effects you should consult your doctor. Report any new or continuing symptoms to your doctor right away.

Why should Inspra not be prescribed?

If your doctor determines that you have high blood potassium levels or severe kidney impairment, you cannot take Inspra. You must also avoid this drug if you are taking certain medications that affect the liver (see "Possible food and drug interactions when taking this medication").

You cannot take Inspra for high blood pressure if you also take potassium-sparing diuretics such as amiloride (Moduretic), spironolactone (Aldactone), and triamterene (Dyazide, Dyrenium, Maxide). Likewise, this drug cannot be used to treat high blood pressure if you have type 2 diabetes along with high protein levels in the urine (known as microalbuminuria), a condition that could signal kidney problems.