It may be used when other treatments have not been effective.
This article will analyze the role of spironolactone in the treatment of acne.
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What Is Spironolactone?

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For treating acne, spironolactone is only prescribed off-label to adult females, not males.
How It Works
Spironolactone works by reducing excess oil and helping to clear acne.
Hormonal therapy may include oral contraceptives, such asbirth control pills, and/or spironolactone.
Consult with your provider on which birth control pills are safe and effective for you.
How Effective Is Spironolactone?
Continue following your healthcare provider’s other recommendations, such as using certaincleansersor other treatments if recommended or prescribed.
Other types of drugs may negatively interact with spironolactone.
Side Effects
Like all drugs, spironolactone carries the potential for side effects of varying severity.
Call your healthcare provider right away if you experience severe side effects.
Call911if your symptoms feel life-threatening or if you think you have a medical emergency.
The following lists common, less severe, rare, and more severe side effects of spironolactone.
Ask your healthcare provider for more information about spironolactone to see if it is right for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
No.
If you are breastfeeding, check with your healthcare provider for medical advice.
Spironolactone may cause stomach pain or cramps in general.
It may also make your menstrual cycle irregular.
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