Spironolactone
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Spironolactone is a type of oral medication called an anti-androgen that is sometimes prescribed to females. Androgens are male hormones that are present...

Spironolactone is a type of oral medication called an anti-androgen that is sometimes prescribed to females. Androgens are male hormones that are present in both males and females that lead to more acne, and spironolactone helps reduce androgens.

It is usually taken once or twice a day, around the same time(s), preferably with a meal.

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February 6, 2008

Pros:

Reduced Oil, smoother skin and texture

Cons:

Thirsty all the time, muscle weakness, dry hands and feet

I have used this for almost 3 months. Started on 50 for 2 weeks, 100 for 2 months, and now on 150 for the last week. Overall my acne has much improved, especially the cysts. I do still have one cyst and some inflamed spots. I'm trying to hang in there like the rest of you. I have suffered with acne since I was 11 and now I'm 41. Nothing has ever worked, not even accutane. My derm gave me Duac yesterday to add to the regime. I'll report back in a month or so to let you know my progress.
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February 6, 2008
Just another thought - work outs will reduce testosterone too. Instead of a pharmacueticaly, try this daily first. That, as well as a healthy diet, few carbs and sweets if any, and 50grams of lean protein a day mixed with as many fruits and veggies! It sounds like a lot - but the reason our hormones are high to begin with is because we are usually too sedentary, don't eat right, and are overly stressed. Why not correct these things, and then go to drugs if it doesn't work?
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February 2, 2008

Pros:

helps to clear skin

Cons:

very sleepy and tired

I just began the Spiro about a week now, my dermatologist gave it to me to take with my birth control(Yaz)- it's my last resort for my sudden and painful breakouts. He said that Spiro works in conjunection with the Yaz- in the amount of hormones- Progesterone v. Estrogen. So, far my face is already clearing up, I'm not sure if it's the Yaz or Spiro causing me to be so tired and making me super sensative (i.e- crying).
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February 2, 2008

Pros:

Less oily skin; virtually no cystic acne

Cons:

Irregular period

I had horrible cystic acne on my cheeks and jawline before EVERY period. Horrible, deep pimples that took so long to clear up that I felt like I was always dealing with them. I started on spiro and w/n the first month, my face improved dramatically. It has been maybe 5 months now and I think I've had one small cystic pimple...AND it cleared up right away! I also use Avage and/or Tazorac at night. I get compliments all the time on my skin! I don't think that has ever happened. Try spiro. It's amazing. Oh, I take 50 mg/day and then up to 75 mg/day the week prior to my period.
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February 1, 2008

Pros:

Don't know yet

Cons:

Don't know yet

I wanted to respond to people's questions about how it effects your birth control and pregnancy. Be very careful if you're trying not to get pregnant, make sure you're taking the pill on time every day and if you don't wear a condom. You also shouldn't take it when you're pregnant since it messes with your hormones. I actually no doctor in their right mind that would let you. I will post in a few weeks with how well it has worked for me, keep your fingers crossed!
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February 1, 2008

Pros:

decreased oil production and improved overall clarity and texture of skin

Cons:

after two weeks I developed more cystic acne on my chin, cheecks and upper area of my neck.

I have suffered with mild to moderate acne since the age of 12 and have always had very oily skin. However, I have always been able to control my breakouts with over the counter topical solutions and a consistent skin regimen. I turned 29 and that is when the problem began. I tried proactiv, murad, and monthly deep cleansing facials to no avail. My derm said that I was suffering from hormonal acne. I tried proactiv and murad to no avail. I am now taking 50 mg/day of spiro, tazorac pm, and sulfacetimide am and I am so impressed with the results. Although, I have not completely healed, people are beginning to notice the improvement. Thats a plus in my book!
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January 29, 2008

Pros:

some weight loss, skin now clearing after 2 months on spiro

Cons:

horrible breakouts within 2 days of starting this. dizziness and fatigue in the beginning because of effects on blood pressure

I started taking this because I had to go off birth control pills 7 months ago because of melasma and my skin was getting progressively worse because of the hormone fluctuations (the most I had ever gotten on my face was maybe a pimple or 2 a week while on the bc pills and now i was getting several and a ton the week before my period). Anyways, I did research on spiro and discovered that since it supresses aldosterone, it also supresses testosterone which would help acne. I then started 25mg BID the first week and then up to 50mg BID the second week. Within 2 days of taking my first dose, my face brokeout worse than ever. Huge pimples and also tiny bumps all over the bottom half of my face - it was HORRIBLE! I didn't want to leave the house. I have now been on spiro 2 months and my skin is finally much better -it's even softer -now all i have left besides a couple of bumps, are scars. Hang in there, it takes a while to work, and has uncomfortab side effects at first- but it's worth it!
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January 25, 2008

Pros:

My skin was clearer than it had ever been by the second week of use.

Cons:

I am on week three and my skin is breaking out again. I had a stressful week so maybe that is to blame. I will stick it out though.

I believe that my cystic acne is hormone related so I will continue to use this to see if it eventually works consistently. This is a last resort before trying accutane. I have been on antibiotics for the last 2 1/2 years and would love to quit taking them. I had a major skin reaction to my antibiotics last summer. I was in the sun for a couple of hours on July 4th, with 50 spf on, and for the next 2 weeks I had a strong tingling sensation in my hands. The docs could not explain my symptoms and it was very scary. I would like to find a solution to my acne before summer rolls around again. This drug is very inexpensive and I not noticed any side effects besides being very thirsty. My family thinks that I am crazy for trying all of these meds but they do not understand how depressing ance can be. I have my fingers crossed!!
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January 25, 2008

Pros:

water weight loss

Cons:

dizziness, fatique, dry nose

I have used this medication consistently for 3 weeks. My skin has gotten worse- I have more cystic acne, but I am hoping this is just bringing things to the surface. Anyone else have this result? My dermatologist won't let me try more that 50mg per day. He did put me on an antibiotic for calming the breakout. I have tried everything. I am 30. Totally ready to FREAK OUT.
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January 25, 2008

Pros:

Eliminated 99% of cystic, hormonal acne.

Cons:

Can't use it during pregnancy.

I am 25 years old and have had acne of various types since I was 13. I have tried many medications over the years, both topical and oral - antibiotics, vitamin A based, etc etc. When I started using spironolactone about a year ago, I had about 28 to 30 active, inflamed cystic pimples. I saw great improvement within a few weeks, and within a few months my monthly break outs consisted of maybe one cystic spot. I also use Benzaclin (topical antibiotic) daily, and Differin as needed, but what has really made this difference is this med. After dealing with my acne for over ten years, I had about given up, so this is my miracle acne drug. I experience little to no side effects while taking 50mg per day.
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Finding a Doctor

The right dermatologist can make a big difference to your patient experience and the success of your acne treatment plan. Here are the steps to find a dermatologist who is a good fit:

  1. Use the search feature on the American Academy of Dermatology website to look for board-certified dermatologists in your area, and filter the search results for doctors with a special interest in treating acne.
  2. Read online patient reviews of any dermatologists you are considering and ask people you know whether they have any experience with these dermatologists.
  3. Do your research and go to your first appointment with questions prepared.
  4. Listen to what your gut feeling tells you once you see a dermatologist in person. If you are not completely comfortable, try a different dermatologist.
Find a Doctor Using The American Acacemy of Dermatology Website

Finding a Doctor

Only a select few plastic surgeons specialize in acne scar revision surgery. Be certain to find a provider who specializes in acne scar repair and who is passionate and experienced in this area.

Be sure to:

  • Look at before and after photos, the more the better, especially patients with similar scarring to your own.
  • Be realistic about results. Look for improvement, not a cure.

Questions to ask a potential scar revision specialist:

  • Are you board certified? Be certain that they are board certified.
  • How long have you been performing these procedures? Normally, the more experience the better, however, some younger surgeons may be more on top of the latest procedures.
  • Can I speak to some of your other patients? Ask for references for several patients who had similar scarring and speak to them about the process and their satisfaction with results.

Red flags:

  • Their story changes: As you discuss different treatment options, if they tend to change their mind easily, or agree with whatever you say, consider this a red flag. A confident, experienced surgeon will possess strong, unwavering opinions.
  • Your gut tells you "no": Trust your gut. If you just don't feel that the doctor is the right fit, trust that and move on. On the other hand, if you feel they are the perfect specialist for you, trust that feeling.
Find a Doctor Using the American Society of Plastic Surgeons Website