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Review
. 2020 Dec;45(8):986-993.
doi: 10.1111/ced.14340. Epub 2020 Aug 26.

Spironolactone in dermatology: uses in acne and beyond

T N Searle  1 , F Al-Niaimi  2 , F R Ali  3   4
Affiliations
Review

Spironolactone in dermatology: uses in acne and beyond

T N Searle et al. Clin Exp Dermatol. 2020 Dec.

Abstract

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.

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