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