Tolerance of spironolactone.
A survey of 54 patients taking spironolactone for hirsutes or acne showed that side-effects occurred in 91%; in 80% of patients, these were related to the anti-androgenic mechanism of the drug (menstrual disturbances, and breast enlargement and tenderness). The concomitant use of a contraceptive pill gave a lower incidence of menstrual abnormalities. Only seven patients (13%) had to stop the drug. In a further eight patients, a reduction in dose to between 125 and 175 mg daily achieved a compromise of controlling the disease and the side-effects. Side-effects tended to occur early and so regular review during the initial 3 months of treatment is advised. Two patients in our study developed 'chloasma'--a previously unreported complication of spironolactone. This was the only side-effect which occurred late in treatment.
Hughes
B R
BR
Department of Dermatology, General Infirmary, Leeds, U.K.
Cunliffe
W J
WJ
D000152:Acne Vulgaris / Q000188:drug therapy; D000328:Adult; D000726:Androgen Antagonists / Q000009:adverse effects*; D003276:Contraceptives, Oral / Q000008:administration & dosage; D004361:Drug Tolerance; D005260:Female; D006628:Hirsutism / Q000188:drug therapy; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008599:Menstruation Disturbances / Q000139:chemically induced*; D008875:Middle Aged; D010859:Pigmentation Disorders / Q000139:chemically induced*; D012867:Skin / Q000187:drug effects; D013148:Spironolactone / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000009:adverse effects* / Q000627:therapeutic use
D000726:Androgen Antagonists; D003276:Contraceptives, Oral; D013148:Spironolactone