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The Use of Spironolactone To Treat Acne

Spironolactone: (Aldactone 50-200mg)

This drug is used as a diuretic and has weak anti-androgen effects, it may be of value if your patient combines it with a birth control pill and uses it for one week before their period to minimize a premenstrual flare of acne.

Uses for which this drug have been found to be effective, but which have not been recognized by government regulatory agencies:

  • Acne
  • Androgenetic alopecia
  • Hirsutism
  • Hidradenitis
  • Suppurativa

Side Effects:

  • Menstrual irregularity

Patients Should Not Use This Drug If They:

  • Are pregnant
  • Have renal insufficiency
  • Have abnormal menstrual bleeding
Your patient should avoid ACE inhibitors – because this increases the risk of hyperkalemia (high potassium). Or if they have a personal or family history of the following:
  • Ovarian cancer
  • Breast cancer
  • Uterine cancer

All content ©2005-2012 SkinThearpyLetter®   |   Last modified: Monday, 25-Mar-2013 16:44:34 MDT