Description
INSPRA (Eplerenone) is a prescription medication used to two different types of cardiovascular issues:
- Hypertension
- Patients with heart failure and left ventricular systolic dysfunction to improve survival
INSPRA works by blocking a hormone that increases blood pressure called aldosterone. Normally, aldosterone increases blood pressure by increases how much sodium the kidneys retain when they make urine. By blocking this hormone, the blood pressure is decreased.
INSPRA works for hypertension by lowering blood pressure. In people with heart failure, it decreases the workload on the heart when blood pressure is lowered.
Directions
Take INSPRA exactly as prescribed by the doctor.
The dosage of INSPRA depends on the condition being treated:
- Heart failure: Start with 25 mg by mouth once daily. The dose can be increased to 50 mg by mouth once daily after four weeks.
- Hypertension: Start with 50 mg by mouth once daily. The dose can be increased to a maximum of 50 mg by mouth twice daily.
Ingredients
The active ingredient in INSPIRA is eplerenone.
Fact Table |
Formula |
C24H30O6 |
License |
AU |
Bioavailability |
70% |
Legal status |
RX Only |
Chemical Name |
Eplerenone |
Elimination half-life |
4-6 hours |
Dosage (Strength) |
25mg (30 tablets), 50mg (30 tablets) |
Pregnancy |
Consult a doctor |
Brands |
Inspra |
Protein binding |
33-60% |
PubChem CID |
5282131 |
MedlinePlus |
a603004 |
ChEBI |
31547 |
ATC code |
C03DA04 |
DrugBank |
DB00700 |
KEGG |
D01115 |
Routes of administration |
Oral |
Interactions
Some common drug interactions that may happen with INSPRA include:
- ACE inhibitors
- Angiotensin Receptor Blockers
- Erythromycin
- Fluconazole
- Lithium
- NSAIDs
- Saquinavir
- Verapamil
Cautions
INSPRA can cause high blood potassium (hyperkalemia), especially when taken with other medications that lower blood pressure. Your healthcare provider should check your potassium when starting the medication and periodically to ensure your potassium is a safe level. High potassium can cause heart problems if left untreated.
Side Effects
Common INSPRA side effects include:
- Coughing
- Diarrhea
- Dizziness
- Fatigue
- Flu-like symptoms
- Hyperkalemia (high blood potassium)
- Increased creatinine
References
Inspra [package insert].New York, NY: Pfizer; 2002.
About Dr. Conor Sheehy (Page Author)
Dr. Sheehy (BSc Molecular Biology, PharmD) works a clinical pharmacist specializing in cardiology, oncology, and ambulatory care. He’s a board-certified pharmacotherapy specialist (BCPS), and his experience working one-on-one with patients to fine tune their medication and therapy plans for optimal results makes him a valuable subject matter expert for our pharmacy. Read More....
IMPORTANT NOTE:
The above information is intended to increase awareness of health information and does not suggest treatment or diagnosis. This information is not a substitute for individual medical attention and should not be construed to indicate that use of the drug is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. See your health care professional for medical advice and treatment.
Product Code : 5519