spironolactone for acne
Acne Treatments
spironolactone for acne
Acne Treatments

Spironolactone

Use Spironolactone, an oral anti-androgen medication, as prescribed to help treat hormonal acne by reducing excess oil production driven by androgens.
Spironolactone is an oral medication that reduces androgen hormones, which can overstimulate oil production and cause hormonal acne. By lowering these hormone levels, Spironolactone helps decrease breakouts, especially in adult women with persistent or cyclical acne.
Spironolactone is primarily prescribed for women with hormonal acne, including those with PCOS (polycystic ovary syndrome). It is particularly effective for women who experience acne flare-ups around their menstrual cycle. Men may also use it under close supervision, but it is less commonly prescribed for them due to potential side effects.
It may take 8–12 weeks to notice improvements, with continued benefits seen after 3–6 months of consistent use. The medication is often used long-term to maintain results.
Spironolactone is typically prescribed for adult women with hormonal acne and is not intended for use in men or children for acne treatment. Patients who are pregnant, planning pregnancy, or breastfeeding should discuss risks and alternatives with their clinician before use. See pricing details here.

Real patients, real results

How effective is spironolactone

75–85%

of women with hormonal acne experience significant improvement with consistent spironolactone use.*
Clinical studies and real-world outcomes show that Spironolactone effectively reduces acne breakouts, particularly along the jawline and lower face, by blocking androgen activity that triggers excess oil production.
*In clinical studies, a majority of women treated with spironolactone saw noticeable reductions in acne severity within 8–12 weeks, with continued improvement over time.
Spironolactone should be taken only as prescribed and requires medical supervision. It is not recommended during pregnancy. For more details, see Important Safety Information.

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Common Question

Yes, Spironolactone can be prescribed for men, but it must be used cautiously due to the risk of gynecomastia (breast tissue enlargement) and other anti-androgenic effects.
Side effects may include increased urination, dizziness, menstrual irregularities in women, and mild breast tenderness. These are usually manageable and resolve when the medication is discontinued.
Yes, blood tests may be conducted to monitor potassium levels, as Spironolactone can cause mild elevations in potassium. Your doctor will ensure it is safe for use based on your medical history.