Heart drug given the all clear for use in the NHS

Concerns had been raised over Spironolactone in 2004 after a Canadian study found it caused kidney problems in patients and led to high blood potassium levels, which can cause heart problems.

However, researchers at Dundee University have concluded the drug can be safely used with careful monitoring.

The latest study found admissions for these conditions fell despite a large increase in prescribing of Spironolactone in the NHS.

The team believe this is due to a more cautious approach to prescribing the drug in the UK - patients are initially given a low dose and have regular blood tests carried out.

Lead researcher Professor Tom MacDonald said patients could get substantial benefits from the treatment without any significant risks.

“Our family doctors are excellent at using this drug safely and as a result patients get the substantial benefits without any significant risks,” he said.

The use of Spironolactone has undergone resurgence in the past decade after studies revealed it could benefit patients with high blood pressure and heart failure, as well as liver disease.

Dr Alex Watson, a GP in Tayside, said the results would offer reassurance to both doctors who are prescribing the drug and the patients who are receiving it.

“This study will allay the fears of family doctors who were concerned at the results presented when the Canadian data was published,” he added.

By Deepika Dudakia