Altone Capsules

Altone Capsule contains spironolactone as its active ingredient. It is classified as a diuretic, used to prevent excessive absorption of salt and water by the body. This medicine increases urination frequency and is prescribed to reduce swelling, primarily in the legs, caused by excess fluid accumulation.

It also helps manage high blood pressure. However, due to some side effects, Altone Capsule should be taken in the correct doses and for the exact duration as prescribed by a doctor. It's essential to inform the doctor about any pre-existing conditions and medications or supplements being consumed to avoid potential interactions.

Dosage

Overdose

• An overdose of Altone Capsule can cause drowsiness, mental confusion, skin rashes, nausea, vomiting and diarrhoea. If you experience any of these symptoms or in case of an overdose, contact your doctor immediately or visit the nearest hospital.

Missed a Dose

• Missing a dose of Altone Capsule may reduce the effectiveness of the treatment and may lead to treatment failure. Hence, it is better to follow the prescribed schedule for optimal results.
• If you have missed taking any dose of this medicine, take it as soon as you remember, if it is time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule.
• Do not take a double dose of this medicine to compensate for the missed one.

Mode of Action

How Does It Work?

Altone Capsule works by removing excess water and electrolytes from the body. It also prevents the loss of potassium which is important for the proper functioning of the heart. Thus, it helps in reducing swelling and blood pressure.

Directions for Use

• Altone Capsule should be taken by mouth with a sufficient amount of water.
• Do not break, cut or chew the medicine.
• Dosage and frequency should be as prescribed by your physician.
• You should take this medicine regularly at the same time and as directed by your doctor.
• Do not consume it more than the quantity prescribed by your doctor.

Precautions and Warnings

Pregnancy

Can I take Altone Capsule during pregnancy?

It is not safe to use Altone Capsule during pregnancy.

Breast Feeding

Can I take Altone Capsule while breastfeeding?

It is not recommended during breastfeeding as it passes into the breastmilk in small amounts and can be harmful to the newborn baby. You should consult your doctor before using Altone Capsule during breastfeeding.

Driving

Can I drive if I have consumed Altone Capsule?

Driving should be avoided as it can cause drowsiness and dizziness as soon as you stand.

Alcohol

Can I consume alcohol with Altone Capsule?

Alcohol should be avoided during its course as it can reduce blood pressure in a standing position, causing loss of consciousness.

Other General Warnings

Talk to your doctor if

• You are diagnosed with kidney disease, as it can cause an electrolyte imbalance and require regular monitoring during the treatment, especially in elders.
• You have any underlying medical condition like heart-related problems or difficulty in passing urine, etc.
• You are pregnant and are breastfeeding.
• Avoid taking any potassium supplements as both can increase the potassium level in your blood which is harmful.

Contraindications

• If you are allergic to spironolactone or any other ingredient of Altone Capsule.
• If you are unable to pass urine.
• If you have Addison’s disease (symptoms are stomach pain, weakness, weight loss or low blood pressure).
• If you are already taking any potassium supplements.
• If you are diagnosed with high potassium levels in the blood or are already taking a water pill (like Eplerenone) that retains potassium.
• If you are pregnant or you think you may be pregnant or are breastfeeding.

Side effects

• Increased level of potassium
• Confusion
• Dizziness
• Nausea
• Rashes
• Muscle pain
• Weakness
• Enlarged breast in men, pain in the breast
• Kidney dysfunction

Interactions

Interactions with other medicines

• Tell your healthcare provider about all the medicines you take, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins and herbal supplements. Altone Capsule may affect the way other medicines work and other medicines may affect how Altone Capsule works.
• Especially, if you are taking potassium supplements, medicines used for heart-related disorders like digoxin or other water pills, antibacterial like trimethoprim, etc.
• Altone Capsule, when taken along with blood-pressure-lowering medicines like Captopril and lisinopril, may lower the blood pressure excessively and you may feel giddy, thus should be used with caution.
• Concomitant use of Altone Capsule along with blood thinners like Heparin, antibiotics like Cotrimoxazole, painkillers (NSAID's) like Indomethacin, etc.(NSAID's), can cause an increase in the blood potassium levels.

Interactions with food items

• Altone Capsule can interact with high-potassium fruits and vegetables such as papaya, bananas, kiwis, oranges, cantaloupe, prune juice, honeydew melons, tomatoes, white and sweet potatoes, asparagus, pumpkin and Brussels sprouts.

Storage and disposal

• Store Altone Capsule at room temperature.
• Avoid direct contact with sunlight, heat or moisture.
• Keep it away from children's reach.
• Do not use expired products in any case.
• Discard the product as soon as it gets expired.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before starting this medication?

Inform your doctor in detail about your medical and surgical history. Tell your doctor about your current medications, herbal preparations and nutritional supplements.

Can Altone Capsule be taken along with the potassium supplements?

It should not be taken with potassium supplements as both can increase potassium levels in your blood which will be harmful.

What are the various foods that should be avoided while taking the Altone Capsule?

Altone Capsule should be avoided along with high-potassium fruits and vegetables such as papaya, bananas, kiwis, oranges, cantaloupe, prune juice, honeydew melons, tomatoes, white and sweet potatoes, asparagus, pumpkin and brussels sprouts.

Can I stop taking the Altone suddenly?

No, you should not stop taking the Altone abruptly, otherwise, you may start retaining water or may lead sudden increase in blood pressure. Hence, if you wish to stop the treatment, consult a doctor. The doctor will gradually decrease the dose or may switch to any alternative depending on the medical condition.