How long does spironolactone take to have effect on a male? (Photo)

Question

About 6 months ago I moved from Europe to California. After about 1.5-2 months i noticed my hair line receded a bit and hair falling out. I went to a doctor and got a special shampoo at first. I am male, but will start my transitioning to female soon. Therefore the docter had no problem prescribing spironolactone to me. 50mg for a month and now 100mg for about 2 weeks. I am not seeing an effect so far though, how long does this take? And will it stop hair loss or also make hair regrow?

Emrah Cinik, MD · Answer

The effectiveness of spironolactone can change from one person to the other. It can also cause blood pressure problems. You can consider Finasteride as an alternative.

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

men should not use spironolactone.  i suggest a full evaluation for your hair loss, consider other oral therapies and topicals, and PRP/progesterone/a cell injections. Or transplantation.  Best, Dr. Emer.

Toby Mayer, MD · Answer

Transitioning and hormones? Estrogen will probably stop and somewhat reverse your hair loss. See an experienced specialist to manage your hormones then you will be able to progress with your transition. Surgical procedures can wait.

Parsa Mohebi, MD, FISHRS · Answer

Spironolactone will completely shut down the testosterone.  It would take about 6 months of daily use to see any improvement/change.  Spironolactone differs from finasteride which works at the level of DHT.  I recommend you see a hair restoration specialist to follow you through this transition.  Keep in mind that any stressors (surgery, trauma, social changes etc) may hasten your hair loss.

Jeff Donovan, MD, PhD · Answer

You'll want to see a specialist. While it's true men should not use spironolactone, it is used very often by transgender patients, especially in combination with estrogen. All treatments for AGA take 6-9 months to determine if it's helping. Remember please that some drugs help stop further hair loss without the patient actually getting an "improvement." Men who are in the process of transitioning should discuss all hormonal related medications with a specialist.

How long does spironolactone take to have effect on a male? (Photo)

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Answer: Hair loss during gender reassignment transition

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Answer: Transgender hormone prescriptions

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How long does spironolactone take to have effect on a male? (Photo)

Answers (5)

Answer: Hair loss during gender reassignment transition

Answer: Hair loss during gender reassignment transition

Answer: Transgender hormone prescriptions

Answer: Transgender hormone prescriptions

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Hair Loss Treatment

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.