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HI Scottishchick,
I noticed a difference with oil right away.The oil came back after a while though on just 25,so I don't know if it will come back again on the higher dose too.I still have some oil,but no where near the amount I used to have.
I also did notice a libido change at first,but it only lasted a month or so.
I always felt like I was kind of "manly" because I have a deep voice,am hairy and have zits.
So I really thought I might have too much testosterone and that Spiro would help.
Wish this initial breakout or whatever would go away since I increased the dose though!
I have two big,painful under the skin lumps right between my eyebrows 
It's odd because I normally get them on my chin or on my nose.
Tomorrow I'm starting 100mg
*Update*
9/17/2010
So my initial breakout FINALLY ended! My face is clear at the moment and the oil production is so
low I actually get some dry skin! My scalp is even drier which is such a blessing when before I could not go one day without washing my hair.
ahhh, setback
spiro was going GREAT and I finally had clear skin... until a few days ago when I got a breakout on one side of my mouth. ugh. I'm only 2.5 months into it, so I'm hoping it's only temporary and will clear up soon. still depressing though!
I have thought maybe it's because I weakened and had a lot of icecream recently, even though I'd otherwise stopped eating/drinking dairy. so I'll get back on that, too.
anyone else had experiences of being clear on spiro, then suddenly breaking out?
edit: or is it posible it's the differin? I only started using it a couple of weeks ago, for my red marks. it does seem to irritate my skin even though I moisturise, does it ever cause spots?
ahhh, setback
spiro was going GREAT and I finally had clear skin... until a few days ago when I got a breakout on one side of my mouth. ugh. I'm only 2.5 months into it, so I'm hoping it's only temporary and will clear up soon. still depressing though!
I have thought maybe it's because I weakened and had a lot of icecream recently, even though I'd otherwise stopped eating/drinking dairy. so I'll get back on that, too.
anyone else had experiences of being clear on spiro, then suddenly breaking out?
edit: or is it posible it's the differin? I only started using it a couple of weeks ago, for my red marks. it does seem to irritate my skin even though I moisturise, does it ever cause spots?
Differin absolutely causes an initial breakout for the first 3 months. Probably the Differin. Keep using it though, they'll go away and your skin will look better.
Differin absolutely causes an initial breakout for the first 3 months. Probably the Differin. Keep using it though, they'll go away and your skin will look better.
Okay, thanks 
It just seemed surprisingly/unlikely to me because the spiro seemed to have cleared my skin? So I didn't think there would be anything for the Differen to draw out. But I guess I'll keep it up for the moment and ask my derm next time I see him
I've been using Spironolactone on and off for over 20 years, it works wonders, never had any side effects. I used to have very painful spots/lumps come up - the first bad ones actually put me in hospital because my face swelled up so badly and my skin started to split! I went to see a private Dermatologist and he prescribed spironolactone, which worked brilliantly - my only problem at that time was getting my GP to prescribe as he wasn't aware that they could be used for the treatment of acne. I've been trying to promote it since so its nice to see so many other people on here having success with it!
I've had a bit of a bad time recently and the docs put me on anti-depressants and I started to get lumps and bumps back, I went straight back on the Spironolactone and they went soon after. But when I think back to 20 years ago, it was after a course of similar meds that the first lots of acne started - I'm wondering if there is a link between antidepressants and acne - has anybody else had experience of this?
Awww after reading everyones great experiences on it it makes me want to go back on Spiro, wish i could get it prescribed from a doctor so id know it was the real deal But they wouldnt even entertain giving me it as they had never heard of it being used for oily skin
Only thing i dont get is i was taking quite a high dose at least 200mg most days for over 2months i think and my Oil didnt decrease one little bit, but most people started to notice a change 2months into it??
Maybe im just weird and things dont work for me like they do for other people!
Glad most people are having luck with it
Hi - maybe stress contributed to the depression, which contributed to the breakouts?
I've been using Spironolactone on and off for over 20 years, it works wonders, never had any side effects. I used to have very painful spots/lumps come up - the first bad ones actually put me in hospital because my face swelled up so badly and my skin started to split! I went to see a private Dermatologist and he prescribed spironolactone, which worked brilliantly - my only problem at that time was getting my GP to prescribe as he wasn't aware that they could be used for the treatment of acne. I've been trying to promote it since so its nice to see so many other people on here having success with it!
I've had a bit of a bad time recently and the docs put me on anti-depressants and I started to get lumps and bumps back, I went straight back on the Spironolactone and they went soon after. But when I think back to 20 years ago, it was after a course of similar meds that the first lots of acne started - I'm wondering if there is a link between antidepressants and acne - has anybody else had experience of this?
hi - you can google "half life" and name of the drug - to read more about how long it'll take before the drug gets out of your system.
good luck!
Hey guys and girls
I took Spiro for about 3 months at about 100mg- 150 every day sometimes bit less bit more different days
I mainly took it to stop or help my oil production as i have the most disgusting greasiest skin ever
It didnt help at all with this not one iota
So iv stopped taking it ....... think i have about a half a bottle left but i dont see the point in continuing to take it if its not helping me dry out whatsoever??
Thing is it completely killed my S*X drive
I did read that a LOT of people had exactly the same side affect and it killed theirs also but i didnt really belive it, but a wee while into it i definately noticed i just didnt feel like that so much which my BF definately didnt appreciate!!!
Anyway iv been off Spiro for a couple of weeks now and i still feel the same
Hopeing to feel like myself again soon ( dont know how long it takes to leave your body) xxxxxxx
Thanks skittlesohboy I found this
The onset of action of spironolactone is usually observed 2-3 days after commencement of therapy. The effects of aldosterone involve the synthesis of protein or peptide subsequent to its combination with its receptor. The activity of the protein or peptide persist for 2-3 days. With long-term use of spironolactone the elimination half-life is 13-24 hours. The duration of effect persists for 2-3 days following discontinuation of therapy.
from this website
[Removed]
So it shouldnt still be in my system really
i have been on spiro since 3/31/10..i never saw consistant results until i switched from generic to brand...that was a 10 days ago and i cant believe it made a difference. I read that CVS pharmacy has a tendency to do this..I called them and they switched to brand aldactone and its made a hug difference instantly...dont know if its a coincidence but i will take what i can get at this point. I was getting discouraged as i hit the six month mark and was still obsessing about my skin
I've had a bit of a bad time recently and the docs put me on anti-depressants and I started to get lumps and bumps back, I went straight back on the Spironolactone and they went soon after. But when I think back to 20 years ago, it was after a course of similar meds that the first lots of acne started - I'm wondering if there is a link between antidepressants and acne - has anybody else had experience of this?
I absolutely believe antidepressants can cause or contribute to acne problems! I had mild acne for seven years that was easily controlled by over-the-counter medication. Once I went on Celexa, my face exploded. Spiro started clearing me up nicely, but it wasn't until I was able to wean myself off the antidepressant that I truly cleared up!
I was taking dianette with my spiro, but I ran out and am living abroad where it's not available. So, a doctor here prescribed me Ortho 21. I was really worried, but experienced... no side effects (so far! it's only been a month). No changes in my skin, weight, anything...
Spiro is still working amazingly! I love it so, so much more than accutane; it works better AND doesn't make my skin red, irritable and dry.
So currently for me, spiro + ortho21 is working perfectly. But, I think the new BC needs more time to prove itself.
Yup I have been on a higher dose (100mg a day) maybe about two months.I have to say it has been a lifesaver.
My skin is dry,no oil at all, and no zits.I really wish I would have been on this years ago...
Also,no weight gain or bad side effects.
My breasts have gotten at least a cup size bigger and sometimes I feel a little light headed as well,but that's easily cured with drinking more water.The light headedness anyways,I don't mind the bigger boobs at all.
Facial hair is much finer,seems to grow slower.Haven't seen much of a change with the hair on my head yet though whether for better or worse.
I've been on it for almost two months, and I'm just now noticing a difference. The reduced oil production excites me more than any effect it has had on my acne. A couple days ago I was actually really clear, then I got two big zits on my jaw, so that kinda sucks. But it's still nowhere near as bad as it was before. My only real complaint is that it is making my scalp really dry... Like, it sometimes looks like I've got dandruff or something. Kinda weird, since I've always had super oily hair...
Hi I live in Sc too. My Dr. makes me come in monthy for bloodwork and also charges me a co-pay to do nothing just to refill my spironalatone! please tell me who you see! I live in Columbia! thanks Robin
I am a 24 year old interested in trying spiro. I was diagnosed with PCOS about 10 years ago after going to a gyno for irregular periods. I have been struggling with PCOS symptoms of acne , the majority around my jawline and excess hair on the face since then.
Birth Control does help the acne but I am wondering about spiro.
I am nervous about the side effects after developing permanent dry eyes from accutane so I am also interested in natural remedies for hormone balancing as well.
I have been on 100mg of spiro for just over two weeks and got my period early (bizarrely heavy). For those of you who aren't on birth control, did the irregular periods sort themselves out? This is sort of scary to me, as I always have regular periods 3 1/2 weeks apart. Don't want to have a "permaperiod". Thanks!
Hi ladies, after scrolling thru pages and pages, i've decided to contribute.
My derm had put me on a month long Spiro treatment after i went to him of for mild breakouts which was happening for the past year (mostly on areas of my face where i don't used to get pimples). I'm currently on my 7th day and i must say.... i'm Freaking out!! I'm having very bad initial breakout on the sides of my face and forehead. I've never experienced anything like this before in my entire life. They are cysts i believe, red swollen and painful (attached a pic to show) 
Besides the thirst and IB, i have not experienced any other symptoms yet. I know that this is normal for some but i can't help but feel upset (abt the IB). I hope they'll clear up asap for the holidays.
Hi ladies, after scrolling thru pages and pages, i've decided to contribute.
My derm had put me on a month long Spiro treatment after i went to him of for mild breakouts which was happening for the past year (mostly on areas of my face where i don't used to get pimples). I'm currently on my 7th day and i must say.... i'm Freaking out!! I'm having very bad initial breakout on the sides of my face and forehead. I've never experienced anything like this before in my entire life. They are cysts i believe, red swollen and painful (attached a pic to show)
Besides the thirst and IB, i have not experienced any other symptoms yet. I know that this is normal for some but i can't help but feel upset (abt the IB). I hope they'll clear up asap for the holidays.
How frustrating, but those pimples are still quite mild (makeup will basically cover them). I can relate. I am exactly 3 weeks in (100 a day), and things are not better yet. In fact, I swear that I have more blackheads than ever. Very dry skin suddenly and I got my period weirdly early last week. But I feel basically ok otherwise...
Hey ladies,
Wanted to add my opinion of good ole spiro. As a three month veteran I am so pleased by the results. Like Shortee said the oil reduction is so apparent and my skin stays clear. Two years ago my skin was awful and so now I'm just in awe of what this one pill can do for my skin and the effect it has on my life. Any ?s feel free to ask because I go back for my Doctor's appt. in about 2 weeks.
Good luck
Rae
hi!
i just started 50mg of spiro today.when do you think i will see some results and my acne go away?
then i guess i have to figure out how to get rid of the acne red marks on my face from old ones..any suggestions?
so basically if ppl go off spiro will all there bad acne come back?
Yup I have been on a higher dose (100mg a day) maybe about two months.I have to say it has been a lifesaver.My skin is dry,no oil at all, and no zits.I really wish I would have been on this years ago...
Also,no weight gain or bad side effects.
My breasts have gotten at least a cup size bigger and sometimes I feel a little light headed as well,but that's easily cured with drinking more water.The light headedness anyways,I don't mind the bigger boobs at all.
Facial hair is much finer,seems to grow slower.Haven't seen much of a change with the hair on my head yet though whether for better or worse.
hi!
when did u see good results from spiro?
i am 31 and have hormonal acne all around my chin and jawline it sucks!! had it forever! and those little tiny bumps on my chin that seem like they are under the skin and not red just bumpy..i hope it gets rid of those too!!
i am on 50mg of spiro started it today.
Yup I have been on a higher dose (100mg a day) maybe about two months.I have to say it has been a lifesaver.My skin is dry,no oil at all, and no zits.I really wish I would have been on this years ago...
Also,no weight gain or bad side effects.
My breasts have gotten at least a cup size bigger and sometimes I feel a little light headed as well,but that's easily cured with drinking more water.The light headedness anyways,I don't mind the bigger boobs at all.
Facial hair is much finer,seems to grow slower.Haven't seen much of a change with the hair on my head yet though whether for better or worse.
hi!
when did u see good results from spiro?
i am 31 and have hormonal acne all around my chin and jawline it sucks!! had it forever! and those little tiny bumps on my chin that seem like they are under the skin and not red just bumpy..i hope it gets rid of those too!!
i am on 50mg of spiro started it today.
Hey there,don't freak, but it sometimes gets a little worse before better.
I noticed a small initial breakout with painful bumps when I started the spiro.
I left them alone and didn't pick at them or anything and they went away altogether in about
two weeks.
By three weeks,my skin was clear.I stayed pretty clear but still had some hormonal break outs during my period,so my doctor upped my dosage to 100mg a day.
Since being on 100mg,I have to say,my skin has NEVER been clearer.
My skin is very smooth now with no oil at all anymore either.
If you aren't finding results after about two-3 months,I would ask for a dosage increase.
Some people say it takes longer then that to see results hormonally,but for me it was nearly immediate.