Spironolactone for Unwanted Hair

Spironolactone is a pill that may slow or reduce hair growth in areas with unwanted hair. It will not get rid of the hair on the scalp and may actually stimulate growth there.

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The Skinny

avg. recovery: 0 days
permanence: Temporary
Type: Pill
surgical: No
cost: $6 - $25

About the Procedure

Last Updated: 11.24.2020

Spironolactone is a diuretic commonly used to treat fluid retention but has shown results for patients suffering from unwanted hair. Its anti-androgen effects can counter the hormones that promote excessive hair growth. Take medication after a meal, once daily or as prescribed. Take this medication for the entire length of time prescribed.

The goal of spironolactone is to reduce the growth of unwanted facial and body hair.

Concerns

Spironolactone for Unwanted Hair addresses concerns such as:

Unwanted Hair

What to Expect

Spironolactone is a pill that may slow or reduce hair growth in areas with unwanted hair. It will not get rid of the hair on the scalp and may actually stimulate growth there. Here is a quick guide for what to expect before, during, and after treatment with Spironolactone.

Before Treatment

No special measures need to be taken before treatment of acne with Spironolactone
Notify your primary care physician once you have begun treatment

During Treatment: Week 1-4

Side effects will start to develop during the first month of treatment and may include:

Menstrual irregularities
Fatigue and dizziness
Breast tenderness

Recovery Notes

No recovery.

Ideal Candidate

The ideal candidate for spironolactone is a post-adolescent woman who is experiencing unwanted facial and body hair growth.

Not Recommended For

Spironolactone is not recommended for men due to its anti-androgen properties. This medication is also not recommended for women who are pregnant, trying to become pregnant, or breastfeeding.

Side Effects

The most common side effects of spironolactone are menstrual irregularities (22%), tiredness (16.5%), and breast tenderness (17%), all of which were mild and rarely caused cessation of the medication. Most side effects are dose-dependent, except central nervous system symptoms (lethargy, headache, lightheadedness, dizziness), which do not appear to always be dose-related.