Is there an initial breakout when starting Spironolactone?

Question

my derm recently put me on spirolactone for acne i agreed to go on it because she said it would not cause an intitial bad breakout before getting better. ive since read many testimonials on line that it does about one month in does anyone have info about this?

Annika Crosby, MD · Answer

Hello! It is not out of the ordinary to get a breakout but Spironolactone does not usually cause this. We us this medicine as a common treatment of hormonal acne in adult female patients.  Remember, that it may take up to 2-3 months to find the right dose for you and your situation.  I would advise to see your provider as they may suggest other treatments with this such as skin pen, INFINI, and/or retinoids.

Corey L. Hartman, MD, FAAD · Answer

Hello!  Spironolactone is a wonderful choice for the treatment of hormonal acne in adult female patients.  I counsel my patients that it make take up to two months on the correct dose before they start to see clearance.  While most do not experience an initial flare, it certainly isn't unheard of if it occurs.  For these reasons, I will often start treatment with an oral antibiotic so that the patient can see faster improvement without worsening of the acne.  Of course, a complete acne regiment should also consist of topical retinoid therapy as well.

Is there an initial breakout when starting Spironolactone?

Answers (2)