Antiandrogen
Reviews
4.1
1330 Reviews
Antiandrogen
Efficacy
68%
Based on All Available Studies
Strength of Evidence
1
2
3
4
5
Antiandrogen
Side Effects
High
Antiandrogen
Acne.org’s Real World Take
“Spiro” has been shown to work in a real and noticeable way most of the time. However, messing with hormones is messing with hormones and it’s best to proceed with caution.
Antiandrogen
How to Get It
Have a dermatologist? Make an appointment to get this medication. Don't have a dermatologist? See The American Academy of Dermatology Physician Database to find one.
Read All About Spironolactone
Compare To Other Treatments
5
51%
4
28%
3
10.1%
2
4.9%
1
6.1%

Used Spironolactone? Rate It:

Choose from 1 to 5 stars
April 11, 2012

Pros:

Reduced oil on face and scalp
Treats other symptoms of PCOS (weight gain in trunk area, excessive body hair, insulin resistance)

Cons:

MUST be used with birth control
Only for females
Evidenced to be carcinogenic in clinical trials when used long-term
Takes long time to become effective, symptoms should not improve for weeks-months on the medication

Medication is an anti-androgen that corrects elevated androgen levels in females, most likely afflicted with poly-cystic ovarian syndrome. It is carcinogenic, will cause abominable birth defects if the user should become pregnant, and should be used with caution and a positive diagnosis for PCOS. While its effects are mild and do not begin immediately, it does treat ALL of the symptoms of PCOS and is extremely valuable to PCOS sufferers. For a severe PCOS sufferer, weighing the detriment of possible cancer against the benefit of a healthy normal life while on the medication, however short-lived, is often not a difficult decision.
January 19, 2011

Pros:

Unable to use it long enough to get any benefits!

Cons:

Heart palpitations within the first several days of use. Had to immediately discontinue. I also had severely high blood pressure which I've never had.

There are side effects but not as common. Really bummed because my doctor said it would take away all my bumps! Now I'm stuck with acne for who knows how long. 30's suck!
January 27, 2013

Pros:

Cheap

Cons:

-Did not improve my acne
-increased breakout in my jawline and below

I don't recommend it.
November 17, 2011

Pros:

Started to work quickly

Cons:

Side Effects not tolerable:
cramping
diarrhea
dizziness
increased aggression
sleeplessness

Not worth it!! And I'm on a small dosage.
March 31, 2012

Pros:

Clears Acne
Decreases Oiliness of Hair and Face

Cons:

Make you pee a lot (but only at first!)

My dermatologist refused to put me on Acutane because I am a girl. Instead he suggested I try this medicine. I am so happy with the results of this medication. I still get one or two cysts near my period, but this is nothing compared to what I had before! Both of my sisters also suffering from acne have asked their doctors to give them this medication and have seen the same results as me. I am glad my current doctor is okay with me using this medicine. The only think I worry about it the day I have to stop using it!
January 17, 2012

Pros:

NA

Cons:

NA

Just started Spiro and my derm put me on amoxicillin (875 mg 2 times a day)as well, due to spiro taking few weeks to show results. Has anyone been on a similar "program". I do not have cystic acne and after reading post I'm afraid of developing cystic acne in the beginning. Suggestions/advice welcome!
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?
November 30, 2006

Pros:

It may work.

Cons:

This medication is known to cause cancer in lab animals. Check out the NIH website. Don't mess around with your hormones.

Try something safer.
February 24, 2011

Pros:

Did nothing

Cons:

None

Didn't work for me
January 5, 2010

Pros:

None

Cons:

This is truly the WORST product ever, if your wondering why Yaz is being sued so often, check out what this product does to your heart. Causes very BAD heart palpitations, no one should use this.

Dont even consider this esp if you are over 35!

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.

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.