Spironolactone

[Bdhoagie]

I'm aged 63 years. I am currently taking Bisoprolol, Amlodipine, Ramipril, Warfarin, Aspirin, Atorvastatin, Omeprazole and Spronolactone. I have been on the same medication for around 10 years, having had an Aortic Valve replacement 12 years ago. Until recently, there have been no problems with the medication, however, I do now have larger breasts (man boobs) and my penis is shrinking! I have erectile dysfunction, although I can (and do) still ejaculate! I am getting quite depressed about my "moobs" and penis situation. I tried going to see a GP about it, but it's almost impossible, unless it's urgent, in my town to see a GP.

I suspect the Spironolactone is the culprit, when I checked online, all references I have read have stated the drug is mainly for women! Is anyone else here on this drug? Do you have the same symptoms? What have you done about it? I am desperate to reverse the situation, and have everything back to the normal size they were.

[xsevenx]

Not an ideal situation! Is it worth chatting to your pharmacist about alternatives to spironolactone and then approach your unhelpful GP practice armed with his/her advice?

[Cliff_G]

Yes, almost certain to be Spironolactone, I had tender moobs after only a year on it after my aortic dissection, and it's a known side-effect.

Two things: why are you on it for so long after an AV replacement (perhaps one to ask your GP), and secondly, if you still need this class of meds, then there is an alternative called Epleronone, which has a reduced (but not zero) hormonal impact. However, it's usually only prescribed by cardiologists.

These drugs do however have a good effect on blood pressure where other meds have failed to do very much, and the range of meds you're on suggests you have a BP issue? Other than that, I'd look to getting off it asap, have a break to let the symptoms diminish, then if necc go on Epleronone.

Another one is the aspirin. You should not be on this long-term, either. Risk of gut problems and other bleeding risks.

Perhaps ask for a complete review of all your meds, as well as these two in particular. Does your surgery have an online consultation system? Best of luck

[GrumpyNortherner]

Hi. I feel your pain, I am on a lot of the meds you are on at 50 and have horrendous errectile issues and weight issues.Regarding your moobs, the bisoprolol might not be helping. Since I started on that beta blocker I have had issues with weight gain and even worse ED issues. Might be worth asking about other beta blockers with your GP.