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
Read All About Spironolactone
Compare To Other Treatments
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
July 31, 2008

Pros:

I'm in my 40's and still had reoccurring acne. I'm on a combined treatment - this, solodyne, topical glymed wash and BenzaClin. Lost weight w/ diuretic effect of this one, face clear, skin texture even changed and oil reduced.

Cons:

Takes about 2 months before it all works. Must keep on program to keep it working.

My prescription costs $25 a month - with the total regimen it's about $100/mo., plus dermatologist visits every 6 mos. - but well worth it!
This Was Helpful

3 user(s) found this helpful

Report
July 30, 2008

Pros:

Works well, consistent (as long as you are in taking it), smoother skin, less oil

Cons:

Initially, it takes a while to work (2-3 months to see full results). Also, it is a maintenance drug and you’ll need to be on it consistently until your body’s hormones change, which could be through menopause.

I had moderate acne as a teen that got more severe the older I got (I'm 24 now). I tried everything under the sun, from topicals (retin A, differin, clindymycin, benzoyl peroxide) to antibiotics (doxycycline, tetracycline, clindymycin) on top of TWO bouts of accutane, all with little or no results. I switched dermatologists several times and never accepted that there was nothing to be done, thank god, because my current derm. suggested my 'last hope': spironolactone. I have been on it for 3 years now and couldn't be more happy about the results. Aside from the occasional pimple, I have no traces of acne whatsoever. I had some irregular periods now again, so I went on a light birth control pill and all is well. I can't recommend this highly enough ' especially for those who have 'tried everything'. Give it a shot.
This Was Helpful

7 user(s) found this helpful

Report
July 29, 2008

Pros:

LIGHTER SKIN, SMOOTHER SKIN, LESS OIL, DECREASED BREAKOUTS, IT REALLY WORKS!

Cons:

ONE OR TWO EXTRA TRIPS TO THE RESTROOM PER DAY, ESPECIALLY IF TAKEN AT NIGHT!

Since starting this medication, my skin has improved 100%. I immediatedly noticed the difference, and by the second week I was completely sold on the product. I found out about this medication from this website and was skeptical it would work for me. I felt compelled to leave a review as a thank you for introducing me to spironolactone. I am pleased and thrilled with my results. I have taken this medication for about two months.
This Was Helpful

2 user(s) found this helpful

Report
July 23, 2008

Pros:

I had used EVERYTHING from age 13 until 23, I'm now 28. Antibiotics, mainly Tetracycline caused severe reactions so I couldn't take Accutane. I tried Spironolactone again almost 5 years ago and have been CLEAR since - until recently. :(

Cons:

Peeing all the time, 1 or 2 times a night, but it's worth it for clear skin. Right now I'm feeling devastated because after almost 5 years, my cystic acne has returned and I have no explanation as to why!?!?!

It works, but the dose and when you take it takes some getting use to. If you haven't tried it, find a doctor that will let you. It has few side effects, especially if your self esteem is as damaged as mine was and is now again. If you tried it before and it didn't work, try it again. I used it for a year when I was 18 and it didn't work, then worked within 2 months a few years later.
This Was Helpful

1 user(s) found this helpful

Report
July 22, 2008

Pros:

I had EXTREME facial oil with cystic acne x 15yrs. Tried accutane x 3, antibiotics, blue light therapy, lasers, retinA, trazadone, ETC. Within a week of spirinolactone it was manageable. I used to have to put on powder every HOUR or so. LOVE IT

Couldn't live without it...wish I would have had it 15yrs ago
This Was Helpful

6 user(s) found this helpful

Report
July 20, 2008

Pros:

Amazing healing of severe, cystic acne (considered use of Accutane) - tried everything else. No real side effects - been using for about 1 1/2 years.

Cons:

Sometimes have to pee more - no big deal

This was the ONLY drug that worked. I am 31 and have had horrible, debilitating acne since a teenager. This stuff was my last hope before trying Accutane. Many doctors do not know about using Sprionolactone for acne, so make sure to let them know/find a doctor who does know. This drug truly changed my life.
This Was Helpful

6 user(s) found this helpful

Report
July 18, 2008

Pros:

Cleared up my acne within a few months of taking it.

Cons:

Decreases saliva production which leads to dry mouth and cavities.

Works very well especially if you have tried many different antibiotics and have not seen longer term results. However make sure to have a dental care routine which includes daily flossing and fluoride rinse to avoid any dental complications.
This Was Helpful

Report
July 15, 2008

Pros:

cheap..no side effects,less oil, clear skin...it works!

Cons:

nothing. initial breakout on the second week.

The day I started taking it I could notice a difference in my oil production. It takes a while to work but after a month I already noticed that I was spending less time fixating on my acne, spending less time trying to pile on foundation to cover my spots. I admit, the first week of taking it, I felt extremely fatigued and felt some nausea (I am sensitive to medication) but after a week or two all the symptoms were gone..no side effects! Actually, bigger breasts and weight loss but I'm not complaining! I still get one or two pimples but they heal fast and the rest of my face is smooth (I am only on month 3). Safe for long term use! its the best!
This Was Helpful

4 user(s) found this helpful

Report
July 11, 2008

Pros:

It's working!

Cons:

I haven't experience anything i'd say is a con, considering this is the only medication I have seen results with, i'll take the good with the bad, although i have been going to the bathroom just a lil more, no biggie!

Just give it time, do not be discouraged by the initial breakout if it does occur to you, you will see results short after that. I'm still in awe of how good my skin looks after only ONE month!
This Was Helpful

3 user(s) found this helpful

Report
July 6, 2008

Pros:

cleared up all monthly breakouts and almost all blackheads

Cons:

Sore breasts before period,cycle slightly shorter than before

I am 42 and started this over a year ago. It has been the most effective treatmnet I've used, and I've tried everything! The side effects are minimal, and the results are great.
This Was Helpful

1 user(s) found this helpful

Report
Previous
1 … 47 48 49 50 51 … 62
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