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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4
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3
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4.6%
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April 1, 2007

Pros:

Been on spironolactone for one month, and although 3 months is the optimal time, I can see a difference. Still have a few blemishes but the drug has certainly improved my skin so far. Have not yet seen a difference in facial hair growth or hair loss.

Cons:

Often times feel without much energy, probably due to the dehydration as it is a diuretic. The amount of times I have to urinate has not really changed, just the intensity! Seems like when I go to pee, I REALLY go to pee.

I had been dealing with acne for over a year and did not bother with a dermatologist but only over the counter creams, etc. I knew what the problem was from the beginning, specially after visiting Dr. Geoffrey Redmond's website. I am glad I just cut to the chase, and didn't bother with dermatologists but went right to an endocrinologist. This drug is highly recommended; the pros definitely overcome the cons. One last note: when I went to my endocrinologist and asked him about the potassium level issue, he told me that it is something one does not have to worry unless they have kidney problems. Moreover, he participated in a research conducted to monitor the K+ levels, and no effect was noted. BUT, in my opinion, it is always good to be safe and check yourself every once in a while.
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March 29, 2007

Pros:

Improves Acne fast even at low doses!! Easy to swallow

Cons:

I worry about my Potassium level frequently. I have had periods of nausea and breast tenderness.

This is the only medication I have taken that has worked. I am 53 years old with acne. (naturally very depressed about it). Dermatologists may not tell you about this treatment option. I changed dermatologists and did my own research for treatment options, and I am so happy that I did. For the first time in the last 10 years I see improvement in my skin. I have tried diet changes, holistic approaches, etc... nothing worked but this!!!!
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March 28, 2007

Pros:

It is helping with acne (both cystic and whiteheads). I take 100 mg/day. My facial hair seems to be growing in more slowly too :)

Cons:

First broke me out terribly, then cleared skin substantially (though not completely... I've only been on it for 3 weeks, however); nobody's kidding about the lethargy and the bathroom runs... take it before 6 PM so you won't have to wake up at night.

Not for everyone, but definitely something you should try if you have chronic acne. Please note that I use spiro with doxycycline, so can't vouch that 100% of the clear-up is due to this drug.
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March 22, 2007

Pros:

been on spiro for a week now one pill 100mg a day, along with the topical treatment ziana. so far so good.

Cons:

frequent urination

I started suffering from nodules under the skin as well as folliculitis, when I entered my thirties. My dermatologist first recommended retin-A, as well as having electrolysis to keep the hair from growing and minimize the folliculisis.
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March 22, 2007

Pros:

I'm 34, and have incredibly oily skin and acne. This is the first product I have every tried that has dried up the oil. I've only been using it a few weeks, and have noticed marked improvement--better than anything I have ever used before.

Cons:

Dietary restrictions regarding potassium. I'm afraid to eat bananas or potatoes. I don't really know how much is too much. I also have to get up slowly when using weight machines or else I get lightheaded.

Worth it.
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March 17, 2007

Pros:

WORKS FOR ME!

Cons:

NONE!! Seriously...no bad side effects for me, except the first few months I had some spotting in between periods

I have NODULAR ACNE...or HAD it...very bad. I thought Accutane was my only choice..but I thought I would give Spiro a chance after praying and praying. I first started with 25mg but didnt seem to do anything, so I asked my doc to up it to 50 mg, so I take that once a day at night w/ food and thats it and I have NEVER EVER been so clear in my life! I'm 21 and suffered since I was 12. I now just get occasional nodules, and my back and shoulders are clear! It took about 3 months to start working, but WOW this is an absolute answered prayer for me. ASK YOUR DOCTOR ABOUT IT! They will let you know if its safe for you (most likely is!) and you just might see a huge change, check it out! Best of luck!
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March 12, 2007

Pros:

Works wonders for acne resistant to other drug therapies

Cons:

I am sorry to be graphic, but you will have to pee 1616315 times a day!!

After everything my derm could think of failed to cure my horrible acne (yes - I was on accutane, it did nothing!), she sent me to a renown acne specialist at the University of Pennsylvania in Philadelphia. He prescribed a combination of spiro (150 mg/day) and birth control pills, and explained that the drug was just beginning to be used to treat acne, but I should still give it a try. Well, 4 years later, my skin is 100% acne and oil free...I am still on the same therapy he prescribed when I was in high school, so I know spiro will not lose its effectiveness.
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March 9, 2007

Pros:

Inexpensive, few side effects, anti-bloating, effective

Cons:

Takes a few months to see results.
Increased urination at 100 mg a day, breast tenderness that subsided after a month; drowsy and tired during first week of 200 mg a day

I was diagnosed with hormonal cystic acne last fall at the age of 33. Started Spiro in mid-December. 50 mg twice a day. Within 4 weeks noticed marked decrease in oil production. No more oily spots, don't ever have to touch up my powder during the day. VERY NICE. At 6 weeks, noticed some improvement in cystic breakouts, only appearing prior to cycle rather than throughout month. At 2 month visit, Dr. increased dosage to 100 mg twice a day. Have been very drowsy this week. May back off my dosage to 75 mg twice a day and ease into the higher dosage. Added bonus: What I call "hag hair," i.e. crazy long, random hair on my jawline and chin has decreased. :-) And my pores have gotten smaller since oil production has decreased.
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March 1, 2007

Pros:

My skin has definitely cleared up after only 2 weeks of being on 75 mg a day. Nothing has worked this well since accutane.

Cons:

I get extreme headaches, i'm dizzy and tired all of the time and and wake up almost everynight with a crazy cold sweat to the point where i have to change my clothes. Has this happened to anyone else?????

I love it and i hope the side effects subside.
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February 28, 2007

Pros:

Everything has been great with this medicine! Completely cleared my oily skin and acne.

Cons:

None. I have been on it with a combination of Yasmin, so I have not experienced any cycle irregularity. I am going to try to use it without the Yasmin, and see what happens.

This has been the best thing that I have ever found to treat my oily skin and acne!! It has been truly amazing! What a blessing!!
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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.
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