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
May 31, 2008

Pros:

I am 47 and most likely premenopausal.. My skin for the last 1yr has been extremely oily with an increase in break outs..my dermatologist Prescribed Spironaolactone and an Antibotic along with the best soap I have ever used " Linda Sy " the best

Cons:

It is yet another pill to take.

If it works I will stick with it. I am desperate seeking a miricale drug.
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May 13, 2008

Pros:

100% CLEAR SKIN for the first time in 25 years! No kidding....

Cons:

increased frequency of urination, but this can be helped by decreasing the dose taken in the evening. I take 25mg at night, and 50mg in the mornings.

This is the first thing that has ever worked for me in over 25 years of going to different dermatologists. I have tried just about everything except accutane, I was afraid of that stuff! This works a miracle. Never did I think I would be able to go without make-up, but honestly, I can now, and nobody notices. It's WONDERFUL. I am so thankful that I switched docs. This is the first thing she suggested. Careful about potential pregnancies though. I've had my tubes tied, so it's no problem. I HIGHLY RECOMMEND THIS TREATMENT!
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May 13, 2008

Pros:

Clears your face up, is not an antibiotic so no danger for staying on it for a long time. It is a diuretic, makes you shed water weight.

Cons:

a couple little dizzy spells, not bad at all though. You need to go off it 30 days prior to trying to get pregnant.

This is also the only thing that has ever worked for me. I actually just got back on it. YES, you will break out just as bad as before you were on it when you go off it. I went off it to try and get pregnant for 7 months and broke out really bad with cystic acne on cheeks and forhead,chest, and some on my neck! I found out my husband has fertility issues and decided to go back on it until we can get help gettting pregnant and I actually do get pregnant. Blondie........I just started Isolaz. I had my first treatment a week ago. You really don't think it helped? I've heard really good things about it. Did they tell you to extract all your zits the night after the procedure? I'm blonde too:)
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May 11, 2008

Pros:

FINALLY...clear skin!

Cons:

None

I am almost 30 years old and have suffered cystic acne sine my teens. After trying every product, drug, etc, available, including 2 rounds of accutane, I had given up hope. I cam across this site about 4 months ago and immediately approached my dermatologist regarding spironolactone. I have just started my third month of treatment at 100mg per day and for the first time in my life I have clear skin. I have had no negative side effects to this drug and would highly reccommend this to anyone.
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May 6, 2008

Pros:

Skin is less oily. Acne appears to be improving.

Cons:

Slight dizziness with increased dose (150 mg).

I have been on spironolactone for the past 5 weeks. Started with 50 mg X 2 weeks, then 100 mg X 2 weeks and now 150 mg. I have moderate-severe acne. My skin has become less oily. I continue to break out but it seems to resolve faster. I see a slight improvement in my skin. Does anyone get their potassium levels checked periodically???
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May 3, 2008

Pros:

less oil at 4 months...
weight loss (water weight - less bloated)

Cons:

takes so long to work.at 4 months my face is finally clear but terrible bacne.
pee like a racehorse
lower sex drive :(

just stick it out. and don't review it after three goddamn days.
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April 24, 2008

Pros:

clearer skin, oil reduction

Cons:

breast tenderness and slight headaches.

I can't stop looking in the mirror. Ive been on 50 mg of spiro for about 3 weeks. I'm a 40 year old female and have been suffering with hormonal acne for aboout 6 yrs. I had a Partial Hysterectomy about 6 yrs ago and had to discontinue using birth control which appeared to managing my acne at the time. Soon after my surgery the anguish of horrible outbreaks and cystic scaring begin to rule my life. Ladies.. I don't want to get too excited about this drug!!!! but it appears I may have found the HEALER to low self esteem and low self worth. I'm hanging in there for the long haul and expecting to one day meet my future husband with my new look and confidence.
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April 13, 2008

Pros:

My skin is finally clear!

Cons:

none!

This is an amazing product. For the first time in 25 years, I am acne free! My skin is clear, and it feels smooth. My doctor initially prescribed it to clear my excessive hirsutism(hairiness) It has significantly reduced that which I am happy about, but the best thing is to be acne free! I turned 40 in December, and I have suffered from acne since I was 13. The only other product to have shown some improvement was Accutane which I took at 20, but that seemed to be short term. Other than that, I have always had the acne. I have also always felt dependent upon my makeup to cover embarassing break outs. Now I can go out with only mascara, and not worry. Spironolactone had been a lifesaver for me.
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April 8, 2008

Pros:

Completely cleared up my acne, when I had given up hope!!

Cons:

Mild headaches, occasional dizziness, extra b-room trip at night.

I have been taking 50mg/twice day for 6 going on 7 months. I have also been using Benzaclin 2 times/day for the same period. Also taking lo-ovral BC. I wash face twice/day with Aveeno face wash (non-frag/non-salicylic acid). I have used EVERYTHING (antibiotics, retin-a micro (all strenghts) differin, duac, you name it, I've tried it. Been suffering for 6 years (beginning at age 18) from moderate-severe cystic acne. By the end of 1st month noticed huge changes. Much smoother skin, much less oily. Was initially using BP 10% on back, but after 2 months no longer needed it! Completely clear on my back still! Month 5 I began to notice HUGE changes in my face. I would NEVER have left the house without painstakingly covering all my acne before. I now go out in public regularly with NO makeup!! This is my 6th month, and even during the bad week before my period, I didn't have a SINGLE breakout! Try it, it will change your life!
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March 3, 2008

Pros:

Overall clearer skin, no real breakouts, maybe some weight loss too.

Cons:

Hasn't helped yet with coarse facial hair.

My doctor presribed spiro to help with both hormonal acne and some coarse hair growth in my chin area. The acne on face, neck, and back has pretty much disappeared. I've been on it for over a year now and have had none of the negative side affects others mention like thirst or excessive urination. But I haven't seen a decrease in the number of several coarse dark hairs on my chin area. Still plucking away...
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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.

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.