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Oral spironolactone: an effective treatment for acne vulgaris in women
Article first published online: 29 JUL 2006
DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2133.1986.tb05722.x
1365-2133/asset/cover.gif?v=1&s=413074e1e506a67a21dcc4e2de9ff9b6ce256d16 "British Journal of Dermatology")
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How to Cite
MUHLEMANN, M., CARTER, G., CREAM, J. and WISE, P. (1986), Oral spironolactone: an effective treatment for acne vulgaris in women. British Journal of Dermatology, 115: 227–232. doi: 10.1111/j.1365-2133.1986.tb05722.x
Publication History
- Issue published online: 29 JUL 2006
- Article first published online: 29 JUL 2006
- Accepted for publication 12 February 1986
- Abstract
- References
- Cited By
SUMMARY
The effect of oral spironolactone (200 mg daily) on acne vulgaris has been studied in 21 women in a randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind crossover study using 3 month treatment periods. Compared with placebo, spironolactone produced significant improvement as assessed by subjective benefit (P<0.001), number of inflamed lesions (P<0.001) and by an independently evaluated photographic method (P<0.02). There was a fall in sex hormone binding globulin but no significant changes in plasma testosterone and derived free testosterone. Initial plasma androgen levels were no higher in responders than in non-responders, nor did oral contraceptive use appear to affect clinical response. Spironolactone is a useful alternative therapy for women with acne vulgaris.