Spironolactone and Acne

Do you suffer from acne and your physician has prescribed Spironolactone?  I see many clients who inquire about this.  Mostly it is clients who suffer from cystic acne or have polycystic ovary syndrome and acne.

Spironolactone is a synthetic steroid and diuretic used internally to treat high blood pressure, fluid retention, hirsutism, Polycystic Ovary Syndrome, and hormonal acne in women.  It is also found in some birth control pills for its anti-androgen effect,

It is sometimes used topically, in very low doses, to treat acne, hair loss and inhibit dihydrotestosterone (DHT).  It is also used orally to assist with cystic acne.  Because Spironolactone is basically a diuretic and assists the body in eliminating excess fluids and salts this may be one reason it can help with cystic acne.  Salt is an aggravator of acne.  Some acne suffers are so desperate to have clear skin they are willing to accept the side effects (i.e., weight gain, larger breasts, thinner hair, abnormal menstrual cycles, mood swings, leg cramps, etc.).

The side effects of Spironolactone can far outweigh the benefits and it is being used less and less.  If your physician wants to prescribe this, please do your own research and make your decision based on what you find.  WebMD is a good place to look.