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
