Health and Me

Itisha Arya

Spironolactone Is Popular For Acne, But Experts Say It Is Not Risk-Free

spironolactone

A notice has been issued for people who use the drug <span>spironolactone</span>. It is commonly prescribed for heart conditions, high blood pressure, and fluid retention. However, doctors say the medication is also used for several other health concerns.

According to the British Association of Dermatologists (BAD), spironolactone is prescribed “off licence” for women dealing with acne, female pattern hair loss, and hirsutism, a condition marked by excessive hair growth in areas such as the chin and upper lip. The NHS also states that spironolactone is a well-established and generally safe medicine that is sometimes used off licence to treat acne. Off licence means the drug is not officially approved for that specific condition under the UK prescribing licence.

Despite this, the NHS says spironolactone is available through the health service and is considered a useful alternative to long-term antibiotics. A study published in 2022 found that the drug is effective and safe for women who have persistent acne.

Spironolactone, sold under the brand name Aldactone, is also used to help manage polycystic ovary syndrome, commonly known as PCOS. However, it is not usually prescribed to men for skin-related conditions.

While the medication can be helpful for many women, experts warn that it does come with side effects and certain dietary restrictions. Here is what patients should know before starting treatment.

<h2>How Does Spironolactone Work For Acne?</h2>

The NHS explains that spironolactone does not permanently cure acne, but it can help control breakouts and gradually clear the skin. The drug works slowly, meaning results are not immediate.

Most women begin to see improvement after about three months of use, but treatment usually needs to continue for at least six months. In some cases, it may take the full six months to experience the maximum benefit.

<h2>What Are The Side Effects Of Spironolactone?</h2>

For acne, spironolactone is usually prescribed at doses ranging from 50mg to 150mg per day. Many patients start with 50mg daily for the first month, depending on how well they tolerate the medication and whether any side effects appear.

If there are no concerning side effects and blood test results remain normal, a doctor may increase the dose to 100mg per day. NHS guidance says the tablets should be swallowed whole with water and taken after food.

<h2>Spironolactone Common Side Effects</h2><ul><li>Sore or tender breasts</li><li>Irregular periods, which may improve if combined with the contraceptive pill or a hormonal intrauterine device</li><li>A drop in blood pressure when standing up, which can cause dizziness or light-headedness</li></ul>

<h2>Spironolactone Uncommon Side Effects</h2>

<ul><li>Skin rashes</li><li>Feeling drowsy</li><li>Tiredness</li><li>Headaches</li><li>Reduced sex drive</li></ul>

<h2>Spironolactone Rare Side Effects</h2>

<ul><li>Confusion</li><li>Poor coordination</li><li>Increased need to urinate, as spironolactone is a water tablet</li></ul>

<h2>Spironolactone Very Rare Side Effects</h2>

High potassium levels in the blood, especially in people over 45 or those with heart or kidney disease

Changes in kidney or liver blood tests, which usually return to normal if the dose is reduced or stopped

Cancer, which has been linked to very high doses in animal studies, but not seen in people taking standard doses.

The NHS advises that spironolactone should not be taken during pregnancy or while trying to conceive. It should also be avoided by people with Addison’s disease or serious kidney problems.

Alcohol can worsen certain side effects, such as dizziness, so cutting back on drinking is recommended. Reliable contraception should be used while taking spironolactone, and the combined contraceptive pill may help reduce side effects while also improving acne.

Doctors advise that it is usually safe to try for a baby one month after stopping the medication. The NHS stresses the importance of informing your doctor about any other medicines you are taking before starting spironolactone. This includes ACE inhibitors, anti-inflammatory painkillers such as aspirin or ibuprofen, certain antibiotics, other diuretics, heart medications like digoxin, drugs for high blood pressure, and potassium supplements.

As per Mirror, people taking spironolactone are advised not to use low-sodium salt or salt substitutes such as Lo-Salt, as these products contain high levels of potassium. Using them alongside spironolactone can raise potassium levels to a dangerous range.

The NHS also recommends limiting foods and drinks high in potassium, including bananas, avocados, pulses, nuts, and salmon. A doctor or dietitian can help plan a low-potassium diet if needed.

This article is for general information only and is not a substitute for medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before starting, stopping, or changing any medication, including spironolactone.

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A notice has been issued for people who use the drug spironolactone. It is commonly prescribed for heart conditions, high blood pressure, and fluid retention. However, doctors say the medication is also used for several other health concerns.According to the British Association of Dermatologists (BAD), spironolactone is prescribed “off licence” for women dealing with acne, female pattern hair loss, and hirsutism, a condition marked by excessive hair growth in areas such as the chin and upper lip. The NHS also states that spironolactone is a well-established and generally safe medicine that is sometimes used off licence to treat acne. Off licence means the drug is not officially approved for that specific condition under the UK prescribing licence.Despite this, the NHS says spironolactone is available through the health service and is considered a useful alternative to long-term antibiotics. A study published in 2022 found that the drug is effective and safe for women who have persistent acne.What Is Spironolactone?Spironolactone, sold under the brand name Aldactone, is also used to help manage polycystic ovary syndrome, commonly known as PCOS. However, it is not usually prescribed to men for skin-related conditions.While the medication can be helpful for many women, experts warn that it does come with side effects and certain dietary restrictions. Here is what patients should know before starting treatment.How Does Spironolactone Work For Acne?The NHS explains that spironolactone does not permanently cure acne, but it can help control breakouts and gradually clear the skin. The drug works slowly, meaning results are not immediate.Most women begin to see improvement after about three months of use, but treatment usually needs to continue for at least six months. In some cases, it may take the full six months to experience the maximum benefit.What Are The Side Effects Of Spironolactone?For acne, spironolactone is usually prescribed at doses ranging from 50mg to 150mg per day. Many patients start with 50mg daily for the first month, depending on how well they tolerate the medication and whether any side effects appear.If there are no concerning side effects and blood test results remain normal, a doctor may increase the dose to 100mg per day. NHS guidance says the tablets should be swallowed whole with water and taken after food.Spironolactone Common Side EffectsSore or tender breastsIrregular periods, which may improve if combined with the contraceptive pill or a hormonal intrauterine deviceA drop in blood pressure when standing up, which can cause dizziness or light-headednessSpironolactone Uncommon Side EffectsSkin rashesFeeling drowsyTirednessHeadachesReduced sex driveSpironolactone Rare Side EffectsConfusionPoor coordinationIncreased need to urinate, as spironolactone is a water tabletSpironolactone Very Rare Side EffectsHigh potassium levels in the blood, especially in people over 45 or those with heart or kidney diseaseChanges in kidney or liver blood tests, which usually return to normal if the dose is reduced or stoppedCancer, which has been linked to very high doses in animal studies, but not seen in people taking standard doses.The NHS advises that spironolactone should not be taken during pregnancy or while trying to conceive. It should also be avoided by people with Addison’s disease or serious kidney problems.Alcohol can worsen certain side effects, such as dizziness, so cutting back on drinking is recommended. Reliable contraception should be used while taking spironolactone, and the combined contraceptive pill may help reduce side effects while also improving acne.Spironolactone NHS WarningDoctors advise that it is usually safe to try for a baby one month after stopping the medication. The NHS stresses the importance of informing your doctor about any other medicines you are taking before starting spironolactone. This includes ACE inhibitors, anti-inflammatory painkillers such as aspirin or ibuprofen, certain antibiotics, other diuretics, heart medications like digoxin, drugs for high blood pressure, and potassium supplements.As per Mirror, people taking spironolactone are advised not to use low-sodium salt or salt substitutes such as Lo-Salt, as these products contain high levels of potassium. Using them alongside spironolactone can raise potassium levels to a dangerous range.The NHS also recommends limiting foods and drinks high in potassium, including bananas, avocados, pulses, nuts, and salmon. A doctor or dietitian can help plan a low-potassium diet if needed.Disclaimer:This article is for general information only and is not a substitute for medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before starting, stopping, or changing any medication, including spironolactone.