Spironolactone is a synthetic steroid that is used for acne treatment in women. Though it is not the first line of defense against acne breakouts, it is highly effective acne treatment against acne caused by hormonal changes. To know more about spironolactone for acne treatment, read on the following…
Acne is a skin disorder that mainly occurs in women due to their hormonal fluctuations. Though acne usually first appears during adolescence, hormonally influenced acne mainly happen during early to mid twenties and can continue well into adulthood. 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 which cause the oil production in the skin increases. Because of that the oil causing blockage of pores which finally results in acne. Accordingly, 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 with the use of topical lotions, creams or gels, and sometimes prescribed antibiotics also. But this acne treatment does not work in every case, and an anti-androgenic treatment with spironolactone for acne treatment is carried out. Due to its androgen inhibiting properties, it is given to women when there is excess of androgen production, the main cause of female acne. The way it work is that it blocks the androgen receptors in the body and fblocks the cells from absorbing androgen hormones. Hence, it simply limits the hormonal fluctuations which cause acne breakouts. The medication is usually given once or twice a day as prescribed by the dermatologist and also depend on the severity of the patient’s acne. The medication is normally used together with birth control pills, and in some cases the pills are recommended a week or a month before prescribing spironolactone. It is highly effective way for acne treatment in women having hormonal disorders that activate acne or other problems like unwanted facial hair. It is also beneficial for some other skin disorders such as androgenetic alopecia, supprativa and hirsutism
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 take to your doctor before taking the medicine. The medicine intake should be avoided during pregnancy and by women having renal insufficiency or abnormal menstrual bleeding. If you’re having this medication,both blood pressure and blood potassium levels should be checked regularly. 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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Stomach cramps, vomiting and/or diarrhea
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Breast tenderness
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Headache and dizziness
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Swelling in face and neck
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Low blood pressure
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Irregular menstruation
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Thirst, dry mouth
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Breathing problems
- Increased blood potassium levels
Women between the age of 20 to 30 suffering from irregular periods, often outburst with acne especially during premenstrual periods. According to some studies, up to 66% of women who took spironolactone for acne have experienced outstanding improvement in their skin, and when taken along with oral contraceptives. The good news is the number has increased to 85%. One has to be patient while taking the medicine as it may take a few weeks to show noticeable improvement in the skin. 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 of the above mentioned side effects, do consult your doctor.