Plasma Potassium Concentrations in Dogs with Mitral Regurgitation Administered with an Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme Inhibitor in Combination with Spironolactone

Abstract

Plasma potassium concentrations were measured in 54 dogs with mitral regurgitation that were administered chronically with an angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor (ACEI), with or without spironolactone. During the administration period of 3 to 95 months, clinical sings tended to progress gradually, with radiographic cardiac sizes tending to be large after 45 months. During the administration period, obvious and persistent hyperkalemia was not detected in dogs administered with ACEI, with or without spironolactone. The present data indicate that the combined use of the AECI and spironolactone can be considered in dogs with mitral regurgitation, although monitoring of plasma electrolytes is necessary.