The Ed.
Well-Known Member
When we think of treating acne we think of the usual things - salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide and Accutane. But now, dermatologists in the USA are reaching for another somewhat surprising choice of treatment. According to board certified dermatologist Sejal Shah, Spironolactone is having some surprisingly good results in fighting the skin condition.
Women in their twenties and thirties who develop adult acne are the most likely to turn to the new treatment after being reluctant to use Accutane which requires patients to be on hormonal birth control and to abstain from alcohol. It's also been linked to depression so it's no surprise that people are hunting out an alternative.
Writing for refinery29.com, Shah says, "Spironolactone is actually a diuretic and has been traditionally used to treat high blood pressure, congestive heart failure, and other diseases that cause the body to retain fluid. But, its anti-androgen effects can counter the hormones that promote the development of acne.
Androgens stimulate oil glands and alter the growth of skin cells that line hair follicles. Although most women with adult acne dont have increased androgen levels in their blood, some studies have shown women with increased androgen levels in their skin tissue. It's also possible that some women may just be more sensitive to the normal level of androgens in their bodies."
It's important to note that the use of Spironolactone in treating acne is what's called 'off-label' meaning that it isn't FDA-approved. However, if doctors feel that it will benefit the patient and they believe there is enough data to prove it then they are able to prescribe it.
Shah says, "The effective dose of spironolactone varies based on the individual, so it may take some time to determine the best dosage for you. This trial period may impact the efficiency of the medication, and it can take up to 12 weeks to see an improvement. It's important to be patient and consistent. As a board-certified dermatologist, I can attest to the efficacy of spironolactone and recommend that you talk to your doctor if you are experiencing recurrent acne that's resistant to over-the-counter treatments. By finding an option that's right for you, clear skin is within your reach."
Until then geek on!
The Ed.
Women in their twenties and thirties who develop adult acne are the most likely to turn to the new treatment after being reluctant to use Accutane which requires patients to be on hormonal birth control and to abstain from alcohol. It's also been linked to depression so it's no surprise that people are hunting out an alternative.
Writing for refinery29.com, Shah says, "Spironolactone is actually a diuretic and has been traditionally used to treat high blood pressure, congestive heart failure, and other diseases that cause the body to retain fluid. But, its anti-androgen effects can counter the hormones that promote the development of acne.
Androgens stimulate oil glands and alter the growth of skin cells that line hair follicles. Although most women with adult acne dont have increased androgen levels in their blood, some studies have shown women with increased androgen levels in their skin tissue. It's also possible that some women may just be more sensitive to the normal level of androgens in their bodies."
It's important to note that the use of Spironolactone in treating acne is what's called 'off-label' meaning that it isn't FDA-approved. However, if doctors feel that it will benefit the patient and they believe there is enough data to prove it then they are able to prescribe it.
Shah says, "The effective dose of spironolactone varies based on the individual, so it may take some time to determine the best dosage for you. This trial period may impact the efficiency of the medication, and it can take up to 12 weeks to see an improvement. It's important to be patient and consistent. As a board-certified dermatologist, I can attest to the efficacy of spironolactone and recommend that you talk to your doctor if you are experiencing recurrent acne that's resistant to over-the-counter treatments. By finding an option that's right for you, clear skin is within your reach."
Until then geek on!
The Ed.
