Tolerance of spironolactone
Hughes, B.R.; Cunliffe, W.J.
British Journal of Dermatology 118(5): 687-691
1988
ISSN/ISBN: 0007-0963 PMID: 2969259 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2133.1988.tb02571.xDocument Number: 361644
A survey of 54 patients taking spironolactone for hirsutes or acne showed that side-effects occurred by 91%; in 80% 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 menstural 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.