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Spironolactone vs. Tretinoin

Spironolactone (Aldactone) is a type of potassium-sparing diuretic (water pill). It's used to treat heart failure, high blood pressure, and swelling from kidney or liver problems in adults. Because it blocks aldosterone (a hormone that affects sodium and potassium levels), spironolactone (Aldactone) can also treat conditions where there's too much aldosterone. Spironolactone (Aldactone) is taken by mouth, generally once or a few times a day, depending on your condition. Some common side effects of this medication include breast tenderness (males and females) and loss of libido (in males).

• Heart failure
• High blood pressure
• Swelling due to liver damage (cirrhosis)
• Swelling due to nephrotic syndrome (a rare kidney condition) - tablets only
• Primary aldosteronism (a hormone imbalance) - tablets only

• Dizziness
• Headache
• Sleepiness
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Stomach cramps
• Enlargement of male breasts
• Breast pain
• Lower sex drive
• Sexual dysfunction
• Irregular or lack of menstrual periods
• Leg cramps
• Higher potassium levels
• Lower sodium levels

• High blood potassium levels
• Low blood pressure and kidney problems
• Abnormal electrolyte levels
• Breast pain or swelling

Retin-A (tretinoin) is a retinoid medication that's used to treat acne in adults and children 12 years and older. It's available as a cream or a gel that's applied onto the skin once a day. Side effects include skin irritation, redness, and peeling. Your acne might get worse at the beginning of treatment, but it should get better as you continue using the medication. You must have a prescription for Retin-A (tretinoin) from your primary care provider or dermatologist; this medication isn't available over the counter.

• Acne

• Skin peeling or discomfort
• Warm feeling or stinging after applying
• Skin redness
• Sensitivity to sunlight (sunburns)
• Worsening of acne in the first few weeks of treatment

• Sunburns
• Skin irritation in extreme weather
• Skin reactions