Spironolactone is a synthetic steroid which is used for acne treatment in women. Though it is not the first choice of acne treatment in order to stop acne breakouts, it is highly effective against acne caused by hormonal changes. To understand more about spironolactone for acne treatment, follow this article.
Acne is a skin disorder ,mainly occurs during early to mid twenties and can persist well into adulthood, that most of the time occurs in women due to hormonal fluctuations. The cause of hormonal acne is mainly associated with androgens, hormones stimulating the sebaceous or oil glands, and hair follicles in the skin. Due to hormonal fluctuations, the oil production in the skin increases, causing blockage of pores that finally results in acne. Hence, most of the women experience increased facial oiliness and acne flare-ups like pimples, whiteheads and blackheads.
Acne Treatment with Spironolactone
Acne treatment usually involves the use of topical lotions which come in difference form such as creams or gels, and sometimes prescribed antibiotics also. But in some cases these acne treatments don’t work so well, and an anti-androgenic treatment with spironolactone for acne is call for. It blocks the androgen receptors in the body and forbids the cells from absorbing androgen hormones. The way that spironolacton woke simply by limits the hormonal fluctuations that cause acne breakouts. The spironolacton acne treatment medication is given once or twice a day as the dermatologist orders and the severity of the patient’s acne. This acne treatment medication is normally used along with birth control pills, and in some cases the birth control pills are recommend a week or a month before start using spironolactone. It is highly effective for women having hormonal disorders that activate acne or other problems like unwanted facial hair. It is also beneficial for some other skin disorders like androgenetic alopecia, hirsutism and supprativa as well.
Precaution and Side Effects of Spironolactone !!!!!
The medicine is not recommended if the patient is on ACE inhibitors and has a family history of breast cancer, uterus or ovarian cancer, or is suffering from kidney problems. In such cases, always inform your doctor before taking the medicine. The medicine intake should be avoided during pregnancy and by women having renal insufficiency or abnormal menstrual bleeding. Both blood pressure and blood potassium levels should be checked regularly if you’re having this medication. There are rarely any side effects due to low dose of spironolactone, but with higher doses women may experience the following:
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Increased blood potassium levels
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Breast tenderness
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Stomach cramps, vomiting and/or diarrhea
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Swelling in face and neck
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Thirst, dry mouth
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Breathing problems
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Low blood pressure
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Headache and dizziness
- Irregular menstruation
The fact is women at the age between 20 to 30 suffering from irregular periods, often outburst with acne especially during premenstrual periods. Some studies shows, up to 66% of women who took spironolactone for acne treatment have experienced the best improvement in their skin, and the number has increased to 85% when taken along with oral contraceptives. But before you see the improvement on your skin, this acne treatment medicine may take a few weeks. Drink plenty of water while taking spironolactone as it also acts as a diuretic. The medicine is sold under the brand name Aldactone, and if you develop any side effects, do talk to your doctor.
Tags: Acne, Acne Treatments