Spironolactone (Aldactone)

What is spironolactone?

Spironolactone is primarily a blood pressure medication with diverse applications in dermatology. It inhibits androgen hormones in the skin, thereby addressing conditions like hormonal acne, female-pattern hair loss, and hirsutism (unwanted hair growth). Additional but less common uses include treatment for oily skin and clogged oil glands.

It is generally a safe and well-tolerated medication, often employed as a long-term treatment option for these dermatological conditions. After 12 weeks of treatment, it typically clears about 60-80% of acne. For hair loss, around 45% of users can anticipate hair regrowth, while 5-10% may experience continued hair loss. Overall, it halts hair loss in the majority of patients.

What are possible side effects of spironolactone?

As a diuretic medication, spironolactone increases urination frequency in approximately one-third of users. Feelings of lightheadedness or dizziness may indicate that the dosage is too high. For those over 45, with kidney issues, or taking blood pressure medication, periodic potassium level checks are necessary. Spironolactone may also induce menstrual irregularities like spotting or irregular periods, particularly if you are not on birth control pills.

How is spironolactone used?

Stay well-hydrated while on this medication. Taking it in the morning can help minimize nocturnal urination. If you're above 45, have kidney issues, or are on blood pressure medication, limit consumption of high-potassium foods like bananas or potatoes.

For those using spironolactone for hair loss, discontinuing the medication will result in hair loss resuming. Therefore, consider it as a long-term treatment strategy for hair maintenance.