Spironolactone
Results
Side Effects

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.

 [more]
4.2
1217
5
52.1%
4
28.4%
3
9.8%
2
4.6%
1
5.1%

Used Spironolactone? Rate It:

Choose from 1 to 5 stars
Sort by: Most Helpful
Order:
Number of Stars
Choose All That Apply
Clear All Filters
Done
October 28, 2008

Pros:

*started to see a tremendous difference within the first week
started off taking 100 mg and increased it to 200 mg the third wk
huge difference in oil production, clearer skin, dries out existing acne, reduces breakouts

Cons:

body aches, headaches, drowsiness, more emotional, pee alot, dry mouth, dizziness

im 19 and ive had acne since my early teens. i had just abt tried everything to get rid of the spots on my face, but it just seemed useless. I was really scared to try it out because of the inital breakout, but i just went for it. and believe me if ur acne is hormonal this is the medication for u. trust me.
This Was Helpful

5 user(s) found this helpful

Report
October 28, 2008

Pros:

clears my face up completely, regrows hair

Cons:

severe dehydration, have to go to the bathroom all the time, sore breasts, have to watch diet, fatigue, muscle cramps (early on), sexual dysfunction, insomnia, hair will all fall out when you stop taking it

I've taken this on and off for acne for six years. Bottom line is that it will clear your face up. It may take four or five months at most, but it will work. Unfortunately, I hate the way I feel when I'm on it - just completly exhausted and lethargic. Every year or so, I lower my dose or quit taking it and am amazed at how great I feel. It's like a whole new lease on life. Then my skin starts getting oily again and all my hair starts falling out. By the time my scalp gets really visible, I lose my nerve and start taking it again. It takes several months for my hair to grow back, and the whole cycle starts again. I really hate feeling tied to this drug, but it has worked for my face and it regrew hair for me that I can't keep without it.
This Was Helpful

7 user(s) found this helpful

Report
October 23, 2008

Pros:

*Reduction in size of some cystic acne
*Easy to take
*Small pill/good taste

Cons:

*Dry Mouth
*Fatigue (first two weeks; cannot exactly pin-point this to Spiro though!)
*IB and no good side effects of this such as bigger breasts /loosing weight

I have only been on this for three weeks as of today. My derm started me on 100mg daily and I thought it was a lot (I wanted to start on 75) but now I am wondering if it was too low. Some of the cystic acne has reduced in size and so far that is the only progress. My face is actually worse than when I started, but I am hoping that is the IB. My neck is a HUGE problem area too, thanks to pro-actice (DO NOT use this) and nothing seems to help. Under my chin and on my cheeks I have red bumps, not sure what they are-somewhat easy to cover with makeup.I did not have to go pee more often and do not need to drink more water than usual, which I have read that the majority of users do,so I am afraid this is not having any effect. I have used everything (will not do accutane) and based on reviews I say try this and be PATIENT. Hopefully it will be worth the wait.
This Was Helpful

3 user(s) found this helpful

Report
October 16, 2008

Pros:

It's an inexpensive treatment compared to Accutane and some topical creams.

Cons:

It may take a while to clear up your skin. Also, sexual desire may slightly decrease.

I have tried tons of other products and medications including Accutane, Antibiotics, creams such as Benzoyl Peroxide, Tretinoin, Differin, and Retinoic Acid... all of them worked while taking/using them, but after stopping, the acne came back. This is my 4th. week taking Spironolactone. My derm said that this would be the last resource (the end of the road)...It just started to work.... altough, the first weeks it made my acne worse I am hoping this is it and the final solution. I have to be patient... but it's so hard!!!
This Was Helpful

Report
October 9, 2008

Pros:

So far so good

Cons:

Frequent urination. Feel more tired. Seem to break me out more in the beginning

Its been 3 weeks and will stay on it a few more months
This Was Helpful

Report
October 7, 2008

Pros:

Small pill.
No side effects yet.

Cons:

They say be patient with this!

I have just started taking Spiro yesterday and I have agreed to be very patient with it. I have tried the antibiotics and several creams and have found nothing to work. I do have pimples near my chin, cheecks, and some on my forehead. My derm said it could be a hormonal thing, since I am 25 and just started to get pimples. Positive thinking is key also in the healing process. I am trying to not to be too obsessed because I know that will only increase my pimples....Power of Attraction. Soo...Good luck to everyone else out there!! Remember also, beauty isn't always on the outside.
This Was Helpful

11 user(s) found this helpful

Report
October 2, 2008

Pros:

Remember everything you read is on an individual basis: for me, it took July, August, September, October to clear up most of the existing acne mostly on cheeks, jawline and neck below chin. Then the breakouts stop all together for the most part.

Cons:

You will definitely pee more. But to counter that drink water, you don't want to dehydrate either. Do not drink alcohol, do not do other drugs. Take it with food, take it many hours before you go to bed. Be patient and listen to your body.

Be patient, start taking one pill first week then two pills next week then work your way up to 3. Drink lots of water and watch the acne stop coming back so you can concentrate on clearing. I recommend not using any harsh cleansers, stick to Neutrogena Oil Free acne wash and Cetaphil cleanser. Use sunscreen - Oil of Olay. Be good to your body and take care of your health, sleep while you are taking the meds!
This Was Helpful

6 user(s) found this helpful

Report
September 28, 2008

Pros:

Don't know yet. Gonna stick with it.

Cons:

Acne; but I don't know if it's coming more from my topical medication (Differin) or spiro. We'll see.

I found out I have p.c.o.s. and my acne, hair loss and weight gain is due to hormonal imbalance. I've been on Spiro for a few weeks (a little over two) now (50 mg a day.) My dermatologist prescribed Differin as well. I thank all of you for all your input, cause I get worried easily. I seem to be breaking out more (alot of little ones on my forehead and around/on my chin) which makes me skeptical. But I hear I need to just plug on through, so I'm going to be patient and wait it out. Once again, I am very grateful for all of your honest input. Thanks again!
This Was Helpful

Report
September 27, 2008

Pros:

My skin and hair is less oily. Fewer Breakouts. My boobs grew a cup size.

Cons:

Leaves me funny tasting: My boyfriend says he tastes it from me and I have some drug taste in my mouth. Eye doctor prescribed me taking eyedrops for dry eye since I've begun Spiro therapy.

Sure, I have some sort of taste perversion, I'm drying out, I'm thirsty all the time, and my sex drive has gone to the toilet. I don't care because my skin is finally clearing up and my boobs are getting bigger!
This Was Helpful

2 user(s) found this helpful

Report
September 22, 2008

Pros:

Has helped to clear up my acne and loss a few pounds!

Cons:

It smells and taste strange. I almost dread having to take it (just because of the taste and smell).

It is a usable product as long as you aren't trying to have sex frequently
This Was Helpful

Report
Previous
1 … 20 21 22 23 24 … 33
Next

Relevant Article(s):

Relevant Forum(s):

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