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Spironolactone in dermatology: uses in acne and beyond
Author(s) -
Searle T. N.,
AlNiaimi F.,
Ali F. R.
Publication year - 2020
Publication title -
clinical and experimental dermatology
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.587
H-Index - 78
eISSN - 1365-2230
pISSN - 0307-6938
DOI - 10.1111/ced.14340
Subject(s) - spironolactone , acne , dermatology , hirsutism , medicine , hidradenitis suppurativa , adverse effect , androgen excess , topical steroid , antagonist , hair loss , pharmacology , aldosterone , receptor , obesity , insulin resistance , disease , polycystic ovary
Summary Spironolactone is a synthetic aldosterone receptor antagonist, with a role off‐label in various dermatological conditions. Its antiandrogenic properties make it suitable for diseases in which excess androgen production results in unwanted and psychologically distressing manifestations in susceptible females. Treatment with spironolactone aims to attenuate androgen‐mediated conditions including acne, hidradenitis suppurativa, female pattern hair loss and hirsutism. We discuss the emerging utility of spironolactone in dermatology, its potential adverse effects and considerations for monitoring.