How long does it take for spironolactone to stop hair for shedding?

Question

I've recently started taking spironolactone for female pattern hair loss after almost a year of excessive shedding. After 2 weeks my face was completely clear of acne,my body hair was thinner after 4 weeks,but after 6 weeks I'm still shedding just the same. Is it normal? When should I expect for shedding to subside. I'm taking 125 mg per day.

Jae Pak, MD · Answer

Some doctors may prescribe spironolactone for hair loss, but it generally does not work.  It is mostly a theoretical treatment for hair loss than a clinical benefit.  It is not a recommended FDA approved drug for hair loss so doctors prescribe it on a off label basis.  It is always a good idea to follow up with your doctor. Understand your hair loss diagnosis and treatment (making sure there are no other medical causes of hair loss).

Nikki D. Hill, MD, FAAD · Answer

Hi Annie_B,Hair loss is a particular interest of mine and is difficult to treat at times.  There are many circumstances and reasons for shedding including nutrition status, medications, hormones, stress, life changes, environmental changes, and medical history. Often I see a telogen effluvium (TE), or rapid profuse shedding, that can actually unmask female pattern hair loss (FPHL).  In other words, it can end up accelerating the process of getting to FPHL if there is a genetic/family history. Additionally, some people's TE may slow down but can continue-persistent thin hair that pulls out easier. This is where its important to see a board-certified dermatologist who can obtain a good history from you to see if there are any triggers driving your hair changes.  Spionolactone is good for testosterone-driven excessive hair production, particularly polycystic ovarian syndrome; however, it isn't the best treatment for shedding.

Jeff Donovan, MD, PhD · Answer

there are many reasons for hair shedding.  While genetic hair loss can be associated with shedding, it's unusual for it to be associated with such persistent shedding. Be sure to check with your physician if any other causes of hair loss might also be present, especially telogen effluvium. It takes about 3-5 months for spironolactone to have an effect on reducing hair loss. Overall about 50 % of women get some benefit from spironolactone, but not all.

Michael Meshkin, MD - Account Suspended · Answer

there is no scientific study that shows this medication actually works however it may have a positive effect on you.  You can try it for three months to see if your hair loss slows down.

William Rassman, MD (retired) · Answer

Many doctors use the drug spironolactone for the treatment of female hair loss. I have not seen good results from this treatment and have heard this from many women who have had this treatment. You need to speak with your doctor and ask your doctor these questions as you have every right to know.

Omeed Memar, MD, PhD (license suspended) · Answer

The first thing to clarify is that female pattern hair loss is related to miniaturization of regrowing hair and not shedding of hair.  If you are shedding hair,  please see your dermatologist and determine the cause of the shedding.

How long does it take for spironolactone to stop hair for shedding?

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