Why am I still getting cystic acne on spironolactone?
The reason spironolactone is still fairly unheard of by acne sufferers is likely due to its main use: treating high blood pressure and heart failure. While I’d taken the birth control pill since I was a teenager in an effort to combat period-induced breakouts, spironolactone works a bit more aggressively.
What is the most significant adverse effect of spironolactone?
This medication may lead to high levels of potassium, especially in patients with kidney problems. If not treated, very high potassium levels can be fatal. Tell your doctor right away if you notice any of the following serious side effects: slow/irregular heartbeat, muscle weakness.
Does acne come back after stopping spironolactone?
Zeichner. “If you discontinue spironolactone, the skin slowly will return back to what it’s genetically programmed to do,” he explains. “Acne typically returns within a few months [after stopping the drug].”
Does spironolactone mess with your hormones?
Spironolactone is an anti-male hormone (anti-androgen) medication. It blocks the male hormone receptor and reduces the level of the male hormones, testosterone and DHEAS. Spironolactone has a diuretic (“fluid tablet”) effect and increases urine production.
Why is spironolactone not working for acne?
Spironolactone does not work for everyone but helps at 65% of women with hormonal acne (if not more). It is not possible to predict who may benefit and who may not. Some women may clear completely with Spironolactone. In other women, Spironolactone may reduce the rate of acne but not clear it completely.
Can I take vitamin D with spironolactone?
No interactions were found between spironolactone and Vitamin D3.
Can I take spironolactone forever?
You would require Spironolactone for as long as your acne is a problem. Most women will be on treatment for a year or two and some women may need treatment for several years. It is possible to reduce the dose and try without medication a year into treatment after the acne has been controlled fully.
What vitamins does spironolactone deplete?
Drug Induced Nutrient Depletion
| Medication | Nutrients Lost |
|---|---|
| Amiloride (Midamor), triamterene (Dyrenium), eplerenone (Inspra), spironolactone (Aldactone) | Vitamin B9 (folic acid) Calcium Zinc |
| Chlorthiazide (Diuril), hydrochlorothiazide (Microzide) | Coenzyme Q10 Magnesium Potassium Sodium Zinc |
| Cholesterol-Lowering Agents |
What vitamins should not be taken with spironolactone?
People taking spironolactone should avoid potassium supplements, potassium-containing salt substitutes (Morton Salt Substitute, No Salt, Lite Salt, and others), and even high-potassium foods (primarily fruit).
How many years can you take spironolactone?
Women may be on Spironolactone for 1 or 2 years or sometimes for several years. Spironolactone can cause side effects. About 1 in 20 of women may need to reduce or come off Spironolactone because of side effects (see below).
How long should you be on spironolactone for acne?
What supplements should not be taken with spironolactone?
Is it OK to take vitamin D with spironolactone?
What is a natural alternative to spironolactone?
As she explains, “Accutane is an oral vitamin A derivative that makes oil glands smaller,” while “spironolactone is an oral androgen blocker.” Considered by some to be a more natural alternative to spironolactone, anecdotal reports show DIM to effectively decrease breakouts — albeit more gradually.
Can I take zinc with spironolactone?
No interactions were found between spironolactone and Stress Formula with Zinc.
What are the side effects of spironolactone for acne?
Common side effects of long-term use of spironolactone during treatment for acne include irregular menstruation, urinary frequency, dizziness, headaches, nausea, vomiting, breast tenderness, and breast enlargement (Shaw and White, 2002).
Is spironolactone a first-line systemic treatment for women with acne?
To further promote the use of spironolactone as a first-line systemic treatment for women with acne, there must be more prospective controlled trials. Keywords: acne, spironolactone, comprehensive acne severity scale, CASS Introduction
Is spironolactone an alternative to isotretinoin for acne?
Without the need for regular blood testing or the risk of severe teratogenicity, spironolactone is an attractive alternative to treatment with isotretinoin. The safety profile of spironolactone is better established than its efficacy in the treatment of acne.
What is spironolactone?
Spironolactone, or Aldactone, is a prescription diuretic that helps restore the balance of sodium and potassium in the body and is used for high blood pressure and heart disease. This drug also can suppress the hormone, testosterone.