If you experience recurring episodes of pimples and acne (and you are well past puberty), you may be aware that spironolactone, also available by prescription as Aldactone or CaroSpir, can treat hormonal acne.
According to dermatologist Kristina Collins, MD, co-founder and CEO of Austin Skin in Austin, Texas, “spironolactone was originally a mild diuretic and high blood pressure medication that was developed in the 1950s, but it was discovered to have a secondary effect of blocking testosterone receptors in the skin,” she tells LIVESTRONG. com. Since then, it has been used for decades to treat acne, and the FDA has approved it to treat PCOS, a hormonal condition. “.
According to Howard Sobel, MD, a clinical dermatologic surgeon at Lenox Hill Hospital in New York City, the medication reduces your skin’s production of sebum, an oily substance that naturally moisturizes your skin but can also clog your pores and cause acne. This is because it blocks certain hormone receptors.
Spironolactone has been proven to be a very successful treatment for acne. In fact, a June 2017 study published in the International Journal of Womens Dermatology found that 85% of those taking the medication saw a significant improvement in their acne and that over half of them were free of any marks at the end of their treatment period.
But as with any drug, it comes with its share of side effects and precautionary notes.
Here, dermatologists discuss the key information that patients should be aware of before beginning spironolactone therapy for acne.
Spironolactone is a powerful diuretic medication used to treat various conditions, including high blood pressure, heart failure, and edema (fluid retention). While it can be a lifesaver for many, abruptly stopping spironolactone can be dangerous and lead to several complications.
This guide will answer your questions about stopping spironolactone cold turkey and provide information on how to safely discontinue your medication under your doctor’s supervision.
Why You Shouldn’t Stop Spironolactone Cold Turkey
Stopping spironolactone abruptly can cause a rebound effect. leading to:
- Increased blood pressure: This can put you at risk for heart attack or stroke.
- Fluid retention: This can cause swelling in your legs, ankles, and feet.
- Electrolyte imbalance: This can lead to serious complications, including irregular heartbeat, muscle weakness, and even seizures.
How to Safely Stop Taking Spironolactone
If you’re considering stopping spironolactone, it’s crucial to talk to your doctor first. They will help you develop a safe and gradual tapering plan to minimize the risk of side effects.
Here’s what you can expect:
- Gradual dose reduction: Your doctor will slowly decrease your dosage over several weeks or months, depending on your individual needs and the severity of your condition.
- Monitoring your condition: Your doctor will monitor your blood pressure, electrolytes, and other vital signs during the tapering process to ensure you’re not experiencing any adverse effects.
- Switching to alternative medications: In some cases, your doctor may recommend switching you to a different medication before completely stopping spironolactone.
Additional Considerations
Here are some additional things to keep in mind when stopping spironolactone:
- Don’t stop taking your medication suddenly, even if you’re feeling better.
- Follow your doctor’s instructions carefully.
- Be aware of the potential side effects of stopping spironolactone cold turkey.
- Contact your doctor immediately if you experience any concerning symptoms.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I stop taking spironolactone if I’m only taking it for a short time?
It’s still best to talk to your doctor before stopping spironolactone, even if you’ve only been taking it for a short period.
What are the symptoms of stopping spironolactone cold turkey?
Symptoms can include increased blood pressure, fluid retention, electrolyte imbalance, fatigue, dizziness, headache, and muscle cramps.
What should I do if I accidentally miss a dose of spironolactone?
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it’s almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Don’t double your dose to make up for a missed one.
Can I take over-the-counter medications while taking spironolactone?
Always talk to your doctor before taking any over-the-counter medications while taking spironolactone, as some medications can interact with it.
Remember, stopping spironolactone cold turkey can be dangerous. Always talk to your doctor first to develop a safe and effective tapering plan.
Additional Resources
- Talk to your doctor if you want to stop taking spironolactone. If you stop it too soon, your condition may get worse. If you’re taking it for oedema, stopping it can cause fluid to build up in your body again.
- PSA: Don’t go cold turkey on Spiro
Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult with your doctor before making any changes to your medication regimen.
Men Should Not Take It
Because spironolactone is an anti-androgen, it interferes with “male” hormones like testosterone.
For some men, this can be problematic because it can cause gynecomastia, or enlarged breasts, according to Dr. Collins says, and it can also negatively affect sexual function.
However, spironolactone is sometimes prescribed to reduce testosterone in trans women, according to NHS.
It’s Usually Best to Take It in the Morning
For the simple reason that it’s easier to remember to take something if you always do it shortly after you wake up, many doctors advise taking some medications first thing in the morning.
Spironolactone is a diuretic, which means it helps the body eliminate extra fluid; this is another reason why taking it in the morning might be preferable (similar to the effects of caffeine)
This medication may cause you to wake up in the middle of the night to go to the bathroom, which is a problem that nobody wants to deal with. Take it close to bedtime to avoid this problem.
Of course, there might be exceptions to this, so be sure to discuss the ideal timing with your doctor if you have any concerns about any other side effects you may want to adjust your timing.
To avoid dehydration or electrolyte imbalances, drink plenty of water while taking spironolactone, especially during exercise or in hot weather, per the Mayo Clinic. A good rule of thumb is to drink about half your body weight in ounces each day (but talk to your doctor about this if you have any underlying heart or kidney conditions).