How It Works
Spironolactone is a diuretic, which gets rid of excess salt and water in the body. It also reduces androgen levels in women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).
Why It Is Used
Spironolactone reduces androgen levels, which reduces male-pattern hair growth (hirsutism), hair loss, and acne for women with PCOS.
Spironolactone is often used with birth control pills to control irregular menstrual bleeding.
How Well It Works
About 70% to 80% of women with PCOS see improvement in excess hair growth after taking spironolactone. It may take up to 6 months of daily use for full effectiveness.1
Side Effects
Side effects from spironolactone may include:
- Irregular menstrual periods with higher doses of the medicine.
- Rash.
- Scalp hair loss.
- Nausea or fatigue with higher doses of the medicine.
- Cramping, diarrhea.
- Drowsiness, lack of energy.
- Headache, confusion.
Side effects go away when you stop using spironolactone.
See Drug Reference for a full list of side effects. (Drug Reference is not available in all systems.)
What To Think About
Unless your doctor advises it and is monitoring you carefully, do not take potassium supplements when using spironolactone. Doing so may cause excessive potassium levels.
Your doctor may not recommend spironolactone if you have kidney problems. This is because it affects how your kidneys get rid of potassium.
Use birth control when using spironolactone. Spironolactone is not safe for use during pregnancy. It has been reported to cause a change in the genitals of a male fetus, although this is rare.
Complete the new medication information form (PDF)
(What is a PDF document?) to help you understand this medication.
Credits
| Author | Kathe Gallagher, MSW |
| Author | Lila Havens |
| Editor | Kathleen M. Ariss, MS |
| Associate Editor | Michele Cronen |
| Associate Editor | Terrina Vail |
| Primary Medical Reviewer | Caroline S. Rhoads, MD - Internal Medicine |
| Primary Medical Reviewer | Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine |
| Specialist Medical Reviewer | Samuel S. Thatcher, MD, PhD - Obstetrics and Gynecology, Reproductive Endocrinology |
| Last Updated | February 6, 2006 |
Lila Havens
© 1995-2007, Healthwise, Incorporated, P.O. Box 1989, Boise, ID 83701. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.
This information is not intended to replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise disclaims any liability for the decisions you make based on this information. For more information, click here. Privacy Policy. How this information was developed.
