Use of spironolactone in treatment of hirsutism

Abstract

Spironolactone (Aldactone), 100 mg to 200 mg daily, has antiandrogenic effects that may enhance treatment of androgen-excess syndromes, particularly severe hirsutism. Combination therapy with an oral contraceptive or with dexamethasone appears to have a beneficial effect. Side effects are transient. The drug should be avoided during pregnancy and in women who have a family history of breast cancer, although there is no proven association between spironolactone and breast malignancy.