Aldactone is a potassium-sparing diuretic and anti-androgen primarily used medically for:
✔ High blood pressure
✔ Edema (water retention)
✔ Hormonal acne
✔ Female hormonal disorders (PCOS, hirsutism)
In bodybuilding, it’s rarely used but has niche applications in:
- Pre-contest water flushing (diuretic effect)
- Gynecomastia prevention (weak anti-estrogen action)
- Androgen-related hair loss mitigation
Dosage & Use in Bodybuilding
1. For Water Retention (Pre-Contest)
- Dosage: 50-100mg/day (split into 2 doses)
- Timing: Last 3-5 days before a show
- Stack: Usually combined with hydrochlorothiazide for stronger effects
- Warning: Can cause electrolyte imbalance – monitor potassium!
2. For Mild Gynecomastia Prevention
- Dosage: 50-100mg/day (weak estrogen blocker)
- Better Alternatives: Aromasin (Exemestane) or Nolvadex are far more effective
3. For Androgenic Hair Loss (Men & Women)
- Dosage: 50-200mg/day (prescription needed)
- Works by: Blocking DHT at the scalp
- Side Effects: Feminizing (gyno, low libido) – not ideal for male bodybuilders
Side Effects & Risks
1. Hormonal Side Effects (Anti-Androgenic)
- Men: Gynecomastia, low libido, erectile dysfunction
- Women: Menstrual irregularities (but helps with PCOS)
2. Electrolyte Imbalance (Hyperkalemia)
- Dangerously high potassium levels → can cause heart issues
- Avoid: Bananas, potatoes, potassium supplements
3. Blood Pressure Drops Too Low
- Can cause dizziness, fatigue (caution when cutting)
Why Bodybuilders Usually Avoid It
❌ Feminizing effects (kills androgens = bad for muscle growth)
❌ Weak for PCT (not comparable to Nolvadex/Clomid)
❌ Better diuretics available (Lasix, Dyazide for contest prep)
When Might a Bodybuilder Use It?
- Women dealing with steroid-induced androgenic sides (acne, hair loss)
- Men with mild gyno who can’t access proper AIs/SERMs (not ideal)
- Last-resort diuretic if nothing else is available
Alternatives for Bodybuilders
| Purpose | Better Options |
|---|---|
| PCT Recovery | Nolvadex, Clomid, HCG |
| Gynecomastia | Aromasin, Arimidex, Nolvadex |
| Water Retention | Hydrochlorothiazide, Lasix (short-term) |
| Androgenic Hair Loss | Finasteride, Minoxidil, RU58841 |
Final Verdict
✅ Can be used short-term for water flushing (but not the best choice)
⚠️ Avoid for PCT or long-term use (due to anti-androgenic effects)
❌ Not recommended for male bodybuilders (kills gains & masculinity)
Best for:
- Women with hormonal acne/PCOS
- Men in emergency gyno situations (if no SERMs available)
Always monitor potassium levels & blood pressure if using!
