Spironolactone

[latayy26]

Matahari- I have similar acne like you I think. Mine is mild and I'm only 20. I defintely do not need Accutane. I have tried many oral antibiotics and none of them worked. I didn't ask my dermatologist to put me on spiro, but I think I am happy that he did. However, like you, I am also worried about things like my kidneys, blood clots, etc. side effects. My derm. seemed real relaxed about prescribing it and then I come on the board and read all these weird things about getting blood tests and some side effects that he never mentioned. The first few days I took it, I was really tired, but that has gone away and I have no other bad side effects. I haven't noticed a huge difference in my skin but I've seen small improvements in my chin which is where I really break out.

I have to say I disagree with Spiro being a last resort. I don't know tons about it but as long as the person is monitored, I don't see how it is that dangerous especially lower doses like 50 mg/day which is what I am on. The side effects of Accutane sound far worse to me than those of spiro. Maybe you are just talking about men because of the whole impotency thing.

[matahari]

latayy26,

I also have heard alot of good things & bad things about Spiro. I have also heard that most derms will not prescribe it to you if you have mild acne, but from your post maybe its not necessarily true. I hoping my derm will prescribe it, if not... I'll will go to another derm that will. What kind of spiro did they presrcibe you? Is it Aldactone? About how much does it cost you?

Keep me posted on how it works for you!

[thick skin]

Hi matahari- I don't think that spiro is necessarily a last resort. I've never been on accutane; that has always seemed like more of a last resort to me as the side effects seem far worse. My derm, also, said that he suggests spiro before accutane. I did antibiotics once or twice in the past (years ago) and that didn't seem to do anything. Didn't want to try antibiotics again because I keep hearing how bad they are for you

I don't think I've been any more tired on spiro than usual, and I definitely haven't been dizzy. I've experienced minor dry eyes and lips, but even that seems to have subsided. My skin is producing a lot less oil, and my pores for the first time ever seem to be getting smaller. I'm thrilled about this, and I hope it continues. I think that spiro is a wonderful option for those who've tried topicals, diet, etc. without much relief.

Originally Posted by matahari

Hey Thick Skin,

I read that Spiro can make you drowsy and that you might get dizzy if you stand up to quickly. Has this happenend to you?

Also, since it flushes out excess salt & water from your body, have you noticed any weight loss? I'm kinda worried about that too because I dont really want to loose any weight... especially if its just water weight.

Have you noticed any other side effects? (Good or Bad)

[latayy26]

matahari,
I will definitely keep you updated on how it is working. The name on the prescription bottle simply says "spironolactone". I think that is the generic of aldactone but I might be wrong. It cost me $10 for 30 pills with my insurance.
-latayy

[matahari]

Thanks for all your info guys!! You all have been really helpful!! I think I'm going to try Spiro and I will keep you all posted on how it goes!