| Spironolactone for polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) Examples spironolactone (Aldactone) How It Works Spironolactone is a diuretic, which eliminates excess salt and water in the body. It also reduces testosterone levels in women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Why It Is Used Spironolactone reduces testosterone levels, which reduces excess hair growth (hirsutism) in abnormal areas for women with PCOS. How Well It Works About 70% to 80% of women with PCOS see improvement in excess hair growth after taking spironolactone. It may take up to 6 months of daily use for full effectiveness. 1 Side Effects Side effects from spironolactone may include: Irregular menstrual periods with higher doses of the medication. Rash. Scalp hair loss. Nausea or fatigue with higher doses of the medication. Cramping, diarrhea. Drowsiness, lack of energy. Headache, confusion. Side effects go away when use of spironolactone is stopped. See Drug Reference for a full list of side effects. (Drug Reference is not available in all systems.) What To Think About You should not take potassium supplements when using spironolactone because doing so may result in excessive potassium levels. Your health professional may not recommend spironolactone if you have kidney problems because it affects potassium excretion. Spironolactone has been reported to cause a change in the genitals of a male fetus, though this is rare. Birth control is recommended while using spironolactone. See a list of questions to ask your doctor about medications. References Citations Hershlag A, Peterson CM (2003). Endocrine disorders. In JS Berek, ed., Novak's Gynecology, 13th ed., pp. 871�930. Philadelphia: Lippincott, Williams and Wilkins. Credits Author Jan Nissl, RN, BS Editor Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA Associate Editor Daniel Greer Associate Editor Lila Havens Primary Medical Reviewer Caroline S. Rhoads, MD - Internal Medicine Specialist Medical Reviewer Samuel S. Thatcher, MD, PhD - Obstetrics and Gynecology, Reproductive Endocrinology Last Updated February 5, 2004 |
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