Effect of Spironolactone on Acute Mountain Sickness

Abstract : This study examined the effectiveness of Spironolactone as a prophylactic agent for the prevention of Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS). Spironolactone 25mg PO QID or placebo was administered to 9 subjects in a double-blind placebo controlled cross over design. Medication was given for 48h prior to and during a 46h exposure to 427 torr (4570m) in a hypobaric chamber. Six subjects demonstrated prevention of either the cerebral or respiratory symptoms of AMS during at least 1 segment of the altitude sojourn.