Which medication is an aldosterone receptor antagonist used for fibrocystic breast disease?

• A. Chlorthalidone
• B. Indapamide
• C. Spironolactone (Aldactone)
• D. Amiloride (Midamor)

Answer: (C)

Spironolactone, commonly referred to by its brand name Aldactone, is an aldosterone receptor antagonist that is utilized in various medical conditions, including fibrocystic breast disease. Its effectiveness in this specific condition is linked to its ability to block aldosterone receptors, which can help alleviate symptoms related to hormonal fluctuations, such as breast tenderness and pain. By reducing fluid retention and helping to balance hormones, spironolactone addresses some symptoms that patients may experience with fibrocystic changes in breast tissue.

In the context of fibrocystic breast disease, the hormonal modulation offered by spironolactone can lead to an improvement in the cyclic breast pain that many women report. This is significant because traditional treatments for fibrocystic breast disease have focused on dietary modifications and hormonal therapies, but spironolactone presents a pharmacological option that can be effective in managing symptoms.

Other options listed do not serve the same purpose. Chlorthalidone and indapamide are thiazide-like diuretics primarily used for hypertension and fluid retention. They do not have direct activity on aldosterone receptors nor do they specifically address the hormonal aspects of fibrocystic breast disease. Amiloride, while also a