Comparative pilot study of repeated large volume paracentesis vs the combination on clonidine-spironolactone in the treatment of cirrhosis-associated refractory ascites.

Objectives: To study the usefulness of the combination of clonidine--spironolactone in refractory ascites.

Methods: Twenty cirrhotic patients with refractory ascites were randomly assigned to receive repeated large volume paracentesis plus intravenous albumin (group 1), or a combination of clonidine (0.075 mg twice daily) and spironolactone (200 to 400 mg daily) (group 2).