Mineralocorticoid receptor antagonist (MRA) = aldosterone antagonist
This group of drugs is used for hard-to-treat high blood pressure and for certain types of heart failure. They are also used in other conditions, for example to treat fluid build-up in liver cirrhosis or in primary hyperaldosteronism.
Mineralocorticoid receptor antagonists (MRAs)/aldosterone antagonists: how they work
Aldosterone is made in the adrenal glands. It binds to receptors (mineralocorticoid receptors) in the kidneys and causes the body to retain more sodium and water. As a result, blood pressure rises. When the medication occupies the receptor and thereby reduces the effect of aldosterone, more sodium and water are excreted and blood pressure falls. However, this causes the body to retain more potassium.
Side effects of mineralocorticoid receptor antagonists (MRAs)/aldosterone antagonists:
A key side effect is an increased potassium level in the blood. Compared with other "water tablets" (see diuretics), MRAs are therefore considered potassium-sparing medicines. Too much potassium in the blood can cause muscle weakness and irregular heart rhythms. Spironolactone can cause enlargement of breast tissue in men. Rarely, liver problems can occur.
For the full list of side effects, please refer to the manufacturer's information.
Active substances: mineralocorticoid receptor antagonists (MRAs)/aldosterone antagonists
Spironolactone, Eplerenone
Mineralocorticoid receptor antagonists (MRA)/aldosterone antagonists: examples of active substances and approved medicines
| Wirkstoff | Produkte |
| Eplerenon | Epleraxiro, Eplerenon, Inspra |
| Spironolacton | Aldactone, Spiro comp Kombipräparat, Spirobeta, Spironolacton |
Sources:
This article is from Tensana – the leading app since 2011, helping hundreds of thousands of people monitor their blood pressure every day.
Our content is based on carefully researched, evidence-based data and is continuously updated (as of 12/2025).
Author Dr. med. Christine Berchtold-Benchieb is a specialist in general medicine who studied at LMU Munich and worked in a hospital as well as several general and specialist medical practices. Her many years of daily care for patients with high blood pressure combines evidence-based expertise with practical experience and ensures reliable recommendations.
Author Dr. med. Christine Berchtold-Benchieb is a specialist in general medicine who studied at LMU Munich and worked in a hospital as well as several general and specialist medical practices. Her many years of daily care for patients with high blood pressure combines evidence-based expertise with practical experience and ensures reliable recommendations.
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