Can spironolactone work for AGA (genetic)? I’m a 24 year old female and AGA runs in my family.

Question

I take 200 mg of spironolactone for aga. However, I was reading that spironolactone works better for aga when it’s the case of pcos, to control the androgens. It’s finasteride better when aga it’s genetics?

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

This needs an in-person evaluation. I suggest seeing a hair loss expert now to evaluate and go over your condition and provide you information about your best treatment options. There are great non-invasive options like prp/progesterone and/or hair transplantation. See an expert. Best, Dr. Emer

Jeff Rapaport, MD · Answer

In my opinion, it is not possible to predict which medication, spironolactone or finasteride will work better for female pattern hair loss. In most cases, spironolactone is superior. However, finasteride can work better in certain individuals. Spironolactone is more effective for Androgen side effects, however this does not always indicate the response in the scalp. Discuss the side effects of these medications with your hair loss expert and see which is more appropriate.Good luck.

Joyce Davis, MD · Answer

You should be evaluated by a board certified dermatologist  who specializes in hair loss.  You didn't mention an evaluation.   A thorough history and comprehensive blood work, and sometimes a biopsy of the scalp is necessary to arrive at a diagnosis of AGA.  Only after all this is done can treatment be considered.  Just because there is a family history doesn't mean that this is the etiology in your instance.  You could have a thyroid disorder, anemia, or other cause for thinning.  There are multiple drugs that can treat AGA.  Sometimes a dose has to be increased; sometimes drugs get switched.

William Rassman, MD (retired) · Answer

Female hair loss is a complicated diagnosis that requires a careful history and many blood tests to rule out the various causes of hair loss.  See your doctor and get this work-up

Can spironolactone work for AGA (genetic)? I’m a 24 year old female and AGA runs in my family.

Answers (4)

Answer: 24 year female with hair loss

Answer: 24 year female with hair loss

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.

Can spironolactone work for AGA (genetic)? I’m a 24 year old female and AGA runs in my family.

Answers (4)

Answer: 24 year female with hair loss

Answer: 24 year female with hair loss

Browse related questions

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.