Spironolactone & Metformin for PCOS Weight Loss: Effectiveness & Side Effects

How does spironolactone work for hair loss? While it was never intended as a treatment for hair loss, through careful observative by astute physicians we discovered that it may be one of the “off label” drugs actually capable of doing just that! Sudden weight gain or loss should be reported to a healthcare provider. It’s important for patients to discuss any concerns with their healthcare provider and to understand the balance between benefits and potential side effects.

Unlock Your Potential: Diet Plans for Men That Revolutionize Wellness!

Explore expert tips on health, fitness, and mindful living with Wellness Derive. Please do not change your medication’s dosage, take it more frequently than recommended, or stop using it without talking to your doctor first. Before each dose, thoroughly shake the bottle if you’re taking this medication in liquid form.
  • Moreover, it is frequently used off-label to treat acne in women.
  • Any use of the medication for weight loss should be carefully monitored under medical supervision to mitigate potential side effects.
  • Your next step should be an honest conversation with a healthcare provider experienced in PCOS management.
  • In order to manage spironolactone use properly, patients and healthcare professionals must understand its negative effects.
  • It usually begins after age 40, and by age 50 nearly half of women will have noticeable hair thinning.
  • Other side effects not listed may also occur in some patients.
  • By reducing androgen levels, spironolactone can help improve insulin sensitivity, which can lead to weight loss.
  • By using intention-to-treat analysis, differences between treatment groups for the outcomes were assessed by Student t test.
Furthermore, there was an increased reporting of side effects in those using higher doses (80-110mg) compared to lower doses (25mg) (Chaofan et. al, 2023). Additionally, doses as low as 25mg showed benefit in a number of studies. Many doctors seem to start female patients at a dose of 50mg daily and, based on tolerance, increase to 100mg even up to 200mg daily depending on results. Al. (2023) and Majed (2023) found the dosages used in nearly all studies ranged from 25mg daily to 200mg daily, with 80mg to 110mg daily being the average and/or most common dosages. Results are after 11 months of treatment. It’s important to note that spironolactone is a medication that should only be used under the guidance of a healthcare professional. However, when used for weight loss, the safety profile of spironolactone is less clear. Spironolactone is generally considered safe when used under the guidance of a healthcare professional to treat conditions such as heart failure and high blood pressure.

Does spironolactone help with weight in PCOS?

It also can be used in combination with other drugs to treat diuretic-induced low potassium (hypokalemia) and high blood pressure. Yes, regular monitoring of kidney function and electrolyte levels (especially potassium) is required while on Spironalctone therapy to ensure safety and effectiveness. Regular check-ups are necessary to monitor kidney function and potassium levels. Spironolactone can cause changes in blood levels of potassium. Moreover, when body liquid levels get back to business as usual, the weight will return. In any case, it’s a good idea that spironolactone may diminish weight in specific individuals, particularly those with high retention of fluids. How much spironolactone you need to take depends on why you're taking it. Clinical, endocrine and metabolic parameters oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT), lipid profile were measured at baseline and at the end of the antiandrogen treatment. It’s important to note that individual experiences may vary, and weight gain can be influenced by various factors. Alcohol should be avoided while taking spironolactone as it may lead to dizziness and fainting. Be sure to inform them of all medications, vitamins, herbs or supplements you take in order for him or her to provide advice accordingly.

Medical Professionals

Its FDA-approved primary purpose, though, is to treat fluid retention and illnesses such as high blood pressure or heart failure. Please consult with your doctor or a healthcare professional for the proper medical advice.. If you have health insurance, the cost may be partially or fully covered, depending on your plan and whether the medication is considered medically necessary. This seems to suggest that topical spironolactone is a targeted treatment and stays locally to where it is placed. Blocking androgen receptors throughout the entire body and lowering the production of testosterone can result in significant negative side effects for men, including increased fatty tissue in the breasts, feminization of features, and sexual dysfunction. In the world of medications, Spironolactone stands out as a versatile and widely used drug. Spironolactone can cause a range of side effects, some of which are common and mild, while others may be more severe. These conditions are characterized by hormonal imbalances, which can lead to weight gain and fluid retention. By blocking androgen receptors, spironolactone reduces oil production and helps balance hormone-driven skin and hair issues. Spironolactone is a potassium-sparing diuretic—meaning it helps your body get rid of excess sodium and water, without losing potassium. They’ll screen the list for potential interactions to help protect your health and maximize the benefits of your medications. But it’s its role as a diuretic that brings us to the heart of our query. Have you ever found yourself staring at the tiny print on your medication leaflet, wondering if the benefits truly outweigh the side effects? Weight loss is a journey that many embark upon for various reasons, such as improving health, enhancing self-esteem, or preparing for major life events. Reversing weight gain can reduce your risk of developing chronic health conditions like diabetes and hypertension. Spironolactone may work by lowering the level of androgens, which lessens hair growth and improves acne. Androgens such as testosterone are responsible for hair growth on the face, chest, and stomach that some young women with PCOS have. This medication lowers blood pressure and reduces fluid retention. Add a comment for Metformin and Spironolactone Weight Loss Spironolactone’s impact on hormones is a crucial aspect of its potential role in weight loss. Long-term use of spironolactone can also lead to dependence on the medication, so it’s important to work with your doctor to taper off the medication gradually if you need to stop taking it. It’s important to talk to your doctor about any potential side effects before starting spironolactone, especially if you have any underlying medical conditions or are taking other medications. And you should also keep an eye on the amount of high-potassium foods you eat, including bananas, oranges, spinach, broccoli, and sweet potatoes. Either way, though, it's crucial to talk to your doctor about any medications or supplements you take or plan to take. There may be exceptions to this, of course, and you might want to tweak your timing based on other side effects you have.
  • Research suggests that women with PCOS have a slower metabolism than women without the condition, making weight loss even more challenging.
  • Spironolactone decreases testosterone levels, which can cause unwanted side effects.
  • Spironolactone can be a safe medication when used under the guidance of a healthcare professional and for its approved medical purposes.
  • These examples illustrate the potential of spironolactone for weight loss, particularly in individuals with underlying medical conditions that can contribute to weight gain.
  • By blocking the effects of aldosterone—a hormone that promotes sodium retention—Spironolactone helps the body excrete excess fluid.
  • Your provider might order blood tests from time to time to check your kidney health while you're taking spironolactone (Aldactone).
  • Remember, taking care of yourself is a priority, and every small step counts towards your overall health.
  • It's used to treat heart failure, high blood pressure, and swelling from kidney or liver problems in adults.
  • Spironolactone is a potassium-sparing diuretic—meaning it helps your body get rid of excess sodium and water, without losing potassium.
Implementing effective tips and strategies can help maintain a healthy weight during treatment. Common side effects include breast tenderness, hair growth or loss, and hormonal changes. Understanding its uses and general properties is essential for patients and healthcare providers. This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions. It belongs to a group of medications called diuretics. It may also be used to reduce swelling related to heart, kidney, or liver disease. The brand name for this medication is Aldactone®. It can also reduce swelling related to heart, kidney or liver disease. Notably, obese patients with HF have lower NP levels compared to non-obese patients 22. It has been previously shown that low NP levels possibly predicted response to therapy in TOPCAT 20 but also in I-PRESERVE 21 with spironolactone and irbesartan, respectively. It is also worth noting that some non-obese patients with high WC also benefitted from spironolactone. However, in light of the fact that formal interaction testing was significant only for the primary endpoint, but not the other end points analyzed, the results of our analyses would suggest that a larger dedicated trial may be able to detect a smaller treatment effect interaction by obesity for spironolactone. The results of this post hoc analysis for the Americas cohort from the TOPCAT study demonstrated that there are significant differences between obese and non-obese groups in terms of both clinical characteristics and outcomes related to spironolactone use. In this case, you would simply stop taking the spironolactone at least a month prior to TTC. Typically, spironolactone will be prescribed alongside birth control. This is because the medication could impact the sex differentiation in male fetuses. Many women continue using hair removal methods during the initial treatment period while waiting for hormonal effects to take hold. If you’re dealing with stubborn acne, unwanted facial hair, or thinning scalp hair due to PCOS, you’ve likely heard about spironolactone as a potential treatment option. The evidence suggests that spironolactone is effective in reducing hair loss and improving hair density, although more research is needed to determine its optimal dosage and safety for men. The extent of hair loss may depend on how long you have been taking spironolactone, the dose, and other factors. Plot of the spironolactone effect vs. placebo as a function of continuous waist circumference in the adjusted model for the primary outcome (A), cardiovascular death (B), all-cause death (C) and heart failure hospitalizations (D). Plot of the spironolactone effect vs. placebo as a function of continuous BMI in the adjusted model for the primary outcome (A), cardiovascular death (B), all-cause death (C) and heart failure hospitalizations (D). Furthermore, obese patients had higher blood pressure, aPV and higher incidence of edema, were enrolled more frequently through the HF hospitalization stratum and had lower NP values. The study-qualifying BNP or NT-pro BNP values were available in 1047 patients. Whether obesity modifies the response to spironolactone in patients with HFpEF remains unclear. Of the remaining 20 patients, 19 patients took combination estrogen/progesterone pills and 1 patient took progesterone-only pills. Of the 110 remaining patients, there were 70 patients (63.6%) who were Caucasian, 7 patients (6.4%) were African American, 13 patients (11.8%) were Asian, and 10 patients (9.1%) were of other and 10 (9.1%) of unknown race. These patients’ medical records were thoroughly reviewed with data points inputted into a data collection sheet. A CASS score of 0 (no or barely visible acne lesions) to 5 (highly inflammatory lesions with nodules and cysts) is assigned separately for the face, chest, and back on the basis of the severity of the acne in that area. One early study showed that there was no reduction in sebum excretion (Walton et al., 1986).
The Connection Between Spironolactone and Water Retention
While spironolactone shows promise as a potential weight loss aid, it’s essential to approach this topic with a critical and nuanced perspective. A 2020 review of 15 studies on spironolactone and weight loss, published in the Journal of Medicinal Food, concluded that spironolactone may be an effective adjunct therapy for weight loss, particularly in individuals with PCOS. Additionally, spironolactone has been shown to improve insulin sensitivity, which can help the body more effectively use insulin and reduce blood sugar levels. In recent years, spironolactone has also gained attention for its potential weight loss benefits.Studies have shown that spironolactone can help reduce body weight by increasing the excretion of certain hormones that contribute to weight gain, such as aldosterone. However, the authors noted that more research is needed to fully understand the benefits and risks of using spironolactone for weight loss.While scientific studies provide valuable insights, real-life experiences can offer a more personal perspective. The effect of spironolactone on lipid, glucose and uric acid levels in blood during long-term administration to hypertensives. The loss of too much body fluid may make it dangerous for you to take this medication. Discontinuing spironolactone should be done under the guidance of a healthcare provider to avoid potential complications. Spironolactone may be beneficial in treating female-pattern hair loss but is not typically used for male-pattern baldness. It’s important to inform your healthcare provider of all medications you are taking.
  • In fact, depending on the dosage and the severity of your acne, Dr. Sobel notes that the average amount of time to start seeing results is typically two to three months.
  • ‘Zit stickers’ can help heal a new or popped pimple, but they’re limited when it comes to managing acne
  • For men, the optimal dose of spironolactone for hair loss is not well established.
  • Talking to your doctor before starting any new medication or changing your current treatment plan is also important.
  • Technically, if you are not eating much, you will reduce weight.
  • Now that we know the basics, let’s dive into seven conditions that spironolactone can treat.
Are there any side effects?
By blocking aldosterone, this "water pill," or diuretic, stops your body from holding on to extra fluid. It works in the body by blocking a hormone called aldosterone. If you're considering it, talk to your dermatologist to determine if it’s a good option for you. Hair loss can also contribute to social and emotional challenges. The hair spends less time growing, which can lead to hair thinning. Spironolactone helps reduce those androgen hormones, which, in turn, reduces excess sebum and acne. Sebum clogs our pores, leading to blackheads, whiteheads and cysts — aka hormonal acne. When we have high amounts of androgens in our body, it can lead to an overproduction of sebum, an oily substance in our skin glands. Androgen hormones are sometimes referred to as “male hormones,” but we all have them in our bodies in different amounts as they play an important role in puberty and reproductive health. Some people may notice improvements in weight loss within a few weeks, while others may not see results for several months. Using spironolactone without a prescription can also lead to ineffective treatment and potentially harmful interactions with other medications. Spironolactone is a prescription medication that should only be used under the guidance of a healthcare professional. It is essential to closely monitor side effects and report any concerns to a healthcare provider. Spironolactone and finasteride are oral medications commonly prescribed for hair loss or androgenetic alopecia. While they share the same goal of combating hair loss, the two medications vary in effectiveness and suitability by sex. Male pattern hair loss (MPHL) affects more than 50% of men in their 40s1, and female pattern hair loss (FPHL) affects approximately 40% of women by age 502, making it a prevalent concern. No, spironolactone is often used to treat hair loss caused by hormonal imbalances, such as androgenetic alopecia. It’s especially helpful for treating hormonal acne and certain types of hair loss. Tell your doctor and pharmacist about all of your drugs (prescription or OTC, natural products, vitamins) and health problems. This is not a list of all drugs or health problems that interact with this drug. Your weekly dose of clear, trustworthy health advice - written to help you feel informed, confident and in control. In six studies the results of HOMA-IR changes relative to combination treatment comprised 468 patients. Six studies described results of FBG changes relative to combination treatment and included 468 patients. Five studies reported the results of TT changes relative to combination treatment included 425 patients (Figure 4). Four studies showed results of LH changes relative to combination treatment in 311 patients. This can lead to weight loss because the body burns more calories when it doesn’t have to produce testosterone. Spironolactone weight gain is a medication used to treat high blood pressure and certain types of acne. Aldactone (spironolactone) is a potassium-sparing diuretic that removes excess fluid from the body in congestive heart failure, cirrhosis of the liver, and kidney disease. Yes, one of the potential side effects of Spironolactone is elevated potassium levels in the blood (hyperkalemia), which can be serious. While Spironolactone may cause some initial weight loss due to fluid loss, it is not intended as a weight-loss medication and should not be used for this purpose. A Day In The Life Of A Health Information Manager Intriguingly, regardless of which drug is used, the side-effects of metformin and spironolactone are both closely dose-related (36). The side-effects of spironolactone include hyperkalemia, transient polyuria, gastrointestinal discomfort, nausea, breast tenderness, allergic reactions, somnolence, headache, vertigo, and menstrual irregularity (35). It should be noted that both metformin and spironolactone have side-effects. This may also be the reason why the combination treatment in this study effectively reduced TT level, but did not significantly improve the hirsute score. Hyperandrogenism is characterized by the increase or over-activity of male hormones in the blood circulation, which can lead to the dysfunction of the hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian axis and the imbalance of energy metabolism in women. First, those who have body fat that is tightly clustered around the waistline or belly area can see some slimming benefits from this medication. This medication blocks the development of testosterone in the body, which can lead to decreased muscle mass and fat storage. The truth is that spironolactone can be used to help you lose weight, but it also has the potential for causing weight gain in some people. Some people believe that taking this medication will help them lose weight, while others are afraid it will cause them to gain weight. Additionally, spironolactone may also cause water retention and increases in blood pressure. They’ll be able to tell you if you’re safe to take spironolactone along with your other medications. This includes common blood pressure medications and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). After reading these previous reviews, I feel the best thing is to go off this medication, especially because the dermatologist I went to did not disclose the possible weight gain I could experience. I am about a month off the med and still haven’t lost the extra 5 lb, but heart palpitations stopped, my hair got better, and my face cleared back to normal. This finding is particularly interesting because not only was it comparing two different off-label drugs, but it also looked at both hair regrowth and the prevention of future hair loss. Al.’s review found that at doses ranging from 25mg to 200mg of spironolactone taken orally daily, 81% of patients demonstrated improved hair growth (by photographic assessment) (Chaofan et. al., 2023). The oral spironolactone treatments looked at only female patients. And one of the unknown side effects noticed with spironolactone was its effect on hair! As such, it is an effective treatment for conditions like hypertension (high blood pressure), heart failure, liver disease, and certain electrolyte imbalances. It is particularly useful in the management of adult female acne. Your medical dermatologist will discuss these medications with you. Cyproterone acetate is another anti hormone medication frequently used by dermatologists.
Stability of Topical and Oral Spironolactone
Excess fluids can contribute to weight gain, so by removing this excess water, spironolactone can help with weight loss. However, Spironolactone may help with weight loss, particularly in women who have bloating and edema brought on by PMS. There is no proof that spironolactone for weight loss works only to help people lose Weight. Weight gain is not listed as a drawback of spironolactone and weight loss in the FDA booklet or clinical research. Spironolactone has not been particularly tested in scientific studies for weight loss. Spironolactone is best for the management of edema in cirrhosis patients not responsive to sodium limitations. Spironolactone is the first-line treatment of New York Heart Association Class III-IV cardiovascular breakdown. There is no clinical proof supporting the theory of acquiring extra weight caused by Spironolactone pills. If you find stomach-related side effects to be bothersome, let your healthcare provider know. Be sure to go for all blood tests whenever your healthcare provider recommends them. You’ll likely have your sodium levels checked regularly with blood tests while taking spironolactone. But if you have heart failure, discuss how much water is safe for you to drink per day with your healthcare provider. The onset of effects from spironolactone varies depending on the condition being treated. Spironolactone is prescribed to individuals with conditions like high blood pressure, heart failure, and edema. Additionally, it plays a significant role in gender-affirming hormone therapy, particularly for transgender women and some non-binary individuals seeking feminising effects. Spironolactone is a medication primarily known for its role as a potassium-sparing diuretic.

Spironolactone may cause side effects. Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go away:

More research is needed to fully understand the effectiveness of spironolactone for weight loss and to determine the optimal dosage and treatment duration. Additionally, the dose and duration of spironolactone treatment may also impact its effectiveness for weight loss. Some studies have shown that spironolactone can lead to significant weight loss, particularly in individuals with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Additionally, spironolactone has been shown to reduce inflammation and improve body composition, which can also contribute to weight loss. When aldosterone is blocked, the body excretes more sodium and water, leading to weight loss. A healthy diet, regular exercise, and stress management remain the cornerstone of any successful weight loss journey. Some users report a decrease in appetite when taking spironolactone, which can lead to a reduction in overall caloric intake and subsequent weight loss. Common side effects of long-term use of spironolactone during treatment for acne include irregular menstruation, urinary frequency, dizziness, headaches, nausea, vomiting, breast tenderness, and breast enlargement (Shaw and White, 2002). Because androgens mediate increased sebum production, they have been implicated in the pathophysiology of acne (Zouboulis et al., 1994), which led to the current acceptance of spironolactone as a non-antibiotic alternative to traditional systemic treatments for women with acne. For women whose acne failed to improve with topical treatments, hormonal therapies in the form of spironolactone and/or combined oral contraceptive pills have become an important treatment strategy. To further promote the use of spironolactone as a first-line systemic treatment for women with acne, there must be more prospective controlled trials. What Is Spironolactone Used For? If there are concerns about weight changes or other side effects, consulting with a healthcare professional is advisable for personalized guidance and adjustments to the treatment plan. Regarding hormonal aspects, spironolactone’s anti-androgen effects can be relevant for conditions like hormonal acne and excessive hair growth in women. There is a lack of medical studies, even those with questionable rigor, supporting the use of spironolactone for weight loss. As emphasized, it’s crucial to clarify that spironolactone is not intended or prescribed as a weight loss drug. By reducing androgen levels, spironolactone can help improve insulin sensitivity, which can lead to weight loss. By reducing androgen levels, spironolactone can help improve insulin sensitivity, which can in turn aid in weight loss. With the right combination of treatments and lifestyle changes, it’s possible to achieve sustainable weight loss and improve overall health with PCOS.
  • This weight loss is usually temporary and may return when the drug is stopped or the body gets used to the impact of the drug.
  • Discussing the timing of your medication with a healthcare professional can help ensure you achieve the best possible results.
  • Both HOMAIR and AUCinsulin were significantly decreased after 12 months, while they were unchanged in patients treated with spironolactone alone without a decrease of BMI.
  • You should discuss the use of spironolactone with your doctor, who will advise you to consider an alternative method of feeding your baby while you are taking this medicine.
  • It is also used alone or with other medications to treat high blood pressure.
  • It's important to maintain a balanced diet low in potassium-rich foods if advised by your doctor.
Before we dive deeper into the relationship between Spironolactone and weight loss, it’s essential to understand the concept of water weight. The long-term safety and efficacy of spironolactone for weight loss are still being researched and debated. Furthermore, spironolactone may not be suitable for everyone, and a healthcare provider can help determine whether the medication is appropriate for an individual’s specific needs and health status.
  • Spironolactone is a diuretic, which means it helps the body remove excess fluid, and this can actually lead to weight loss.
  • People who took spironolactone (Aldactone) during clinical studies didn't report weight gain as a side effect.
  • Early signs of regrowth, such as reduced hair shedding, appeared within the first few months, with new hair growth in thinning areas typically showing after around 6 months.
  • It’s important to note that any weight loss from spironolactone is related to water—not fat.
  • However, some users of this prescription medicine claim to have achieved weight loss results.
  • However, if menstrual irregularities persist or lead to other health problems, it is best to consult a doctor.
  • While some studies suggest a potential link between spironolactone and modest weight loss in women with PCOS‚ the evidence is not conclusive.
  • Spironolactone controls high blood pressure, edema, heart failure, and hyperaldosteronism but does not cure these conditions.
Spironolactone fills in as a diuretic, which implies that it makes the body eliminate additional fluids. It hinders a chemical called aldosterone, which eliminates water alongside sodium; however, it lessens potassium excretion. In addition, Spironolactone is an extraordinary kind of water pill in a class of prescriptions called potassium diuretics. It is always recommended to use spironolactone under the supervision of a doctor and according to his instructions. However, you should pay attention to the amount of fluid consumption to prevent the accumulation of excess fluid in the body. We're talking about spironolactone (Aldactone, CaroSpir). Doctor-approved information to keep you and your family healthy and happy. Since spironolactone is a diuretic, one side effect you could experience is excessive urination.
Can Men Use Spironolactone for Hair Loss?
Use of spironolactone in treatment of hirsutism. Some conditions, like heart failure and high blood pressure, are approved by the FDA. Spironolactone is a medication that treats many different types of health conditions. There are many ways to save on spironolactone, which is available as both a brand-name and generic medication. Although spironolactone can be helpful for certain health conditions, it may not be the best choice for everyone. Vomiting of blood or material that looks like coffee grounds Clear or bloody discharge from the nipple Spironolactone (Aldactone) is a potassium-sparing diuretic (water pill) that's also an aldosterone antagonist. Spironolactone (Aldactone) is a type of potassium-sparing diuretic (water pill). If you experience severe side effects such as chest pain, severe dizziness, or signs of an allergic reaction, seek medical attention immediately. It's important to maintain a balanced diet low in potassium-rich foods if advised by your doctor. Yes, since Spironolactone has anti-androgen properties, it can affect hormone levels, which may lead to changes like menstrual irregularities or breast development in men.
  • While some people may experience regrowth, especially in areas where hair follicles are still active, others may see only a reduction in further hair loss rather than significant new hair growth.
  • By highlighting advantages such as improved sleep quality, reduced side effects, and enhanced blood pressure control, we aim to provide you with the support you need.
  • Finally, what does spironolactone cost?
  • Plot of the spironolactone effect vs. placebo as a function of continuous BMI in the adjusted model for the primary outcome (A), cardiovascular death (B), all-cause death (C) and heart failure hospitalizations (D).
  • This can lead to increased weight loss and improved overall health.Spironolactone has been shown to have a significant impact on weight loss, particularly in individuals who have difficulty losing weight due to hormonal imbalances.
  • Spironolactone, normally used to treat high blood pressure and heart failure is increasingly used off-label for hair loss.
  • In conclusion, while Spironolactone may have some side effects that can lead to weight loss, it is not a reliable or safe method for losing weight.
However, for some individuals, spironolactone may be a valuable addition to their weight loss journey.Spironolactone is a diuretic medication that is primarily used to treat conditions such as high blood pressure, heart failure, and edema (swelling). However, more research is needed to fully understand the benefits and risks of using spironolactone for weight loss.It’s crucial to remember that spironolactone is a prescription medication that should only be taken under the guidance of a healthcare professional. However, it’s essential to consult with a healthcare professional before using spironolactone for weight loss. Minocycline, for example, has been studied with various methods of outcome measurement and has been found to show improvement in 51% of cases (Ozolins et al., 2004) and completely or mostly clear acne in 23.6% of cases (Stewart et al., 2006). Of these, 34 patients saw a reduction in their CASS score by the time of their first follow-up visit, an additional 5 patients saw a reduction by the second follow-up visit, and an additional 1 patient by the fourth follow-up visit (Table 3). Of these, 31 patients saw a reduction in their CASS score by the time of their first follow-up visit, an additional 2 patients by the second follow-up visit, and an additional 1 patient by the fourth follow-up visit (Table 2). Of these, 86 patients saw a reduction in their CASS score by the time of their first follow-up visit, an additional 7 patients by the second follow-up visit, and an additional 1 patient by the fourth follow-up visit (Table 1). Hair takes time to grow, and spironolactone isn't a quick fix. For reference, spironolactone tablets come as 25 mg, 50 mg, and 100 mg. Since spironolactone isn’t approved for FPHL, there isn’t a widely accepted dosage for it. In addition to the studies mentioned above, other small studies have shown promising results. Among these solutions, there’s a rising trend that has caught public attention – weight loss gummies. In today’s fast-paced world, weight loss has become a significant concern for many individuals. When it comes to managing obesity, weight loss surgery can be a significant turning point for many individuals. If you’re asking, “How many calories should I consume for weight loss? It's essential to differentiate between temporary fluid retention and other causes of weight gain to address the issue effectively. Adjustments in dosage or exploring alternative treatments might be necessary for some individuals. We provide clear, well-researched information on health, fitness, nutrition, and lifestyle topics—made simple and accessible for everyone. HealthSoothe is a trusted online platform dedicated to helping people make better health and wellness decisions. Get the latest health insights, wellness tips, and medical updates from HealthSoothe By controlling insulin resistance, metformin can indirectly aid in weight loss for women with PCOS. Fortunately, medications like metformin and spironolactone may help with weight loss and managing other PCOS symptoms. Yang et al. (30) indicated that HOMA-IR and insulin levels of overweight women decreased significantly after using metformin for 12 months and returned to the baseline levels for 24 months, whereas there was no discernible change in HOMA-IR and insulin levels in non-obese patients during 24 months. Firstly, if you think about spironolactone weight loss results, you must read the side effects first.
  • Based on the results of Burns’s11 and Sinclair’s15 research, the efficacy of spironolactone at a 12-month treatment was significantly better than that of 6 months.
  • Blood and urine tests may be needed to check for unwanted effects.
  • Spironolactone is often prescribed for young people with PCOS who are taking oral contraceptive pills and are “hirsute” (have extra hair in unwanted places).
  • However, more research is needed to fully understand the long-term effects of using spironolactone for weight loss.
  • However, more research is needed to fully understand the benefits and risks of using spironolactone for weight loss.It’s crucial to remember that spironolactone is a prescription medication that should only be taken under the guidance of a healthcare professional.
  • It is not meant to be comprehensive and should be used as a tool to help the user understand and/or assess potential diagnostic and treatment options.
  • Spironolactone, a medication commonly used to treat high blood pressure, heart failure, and edema, has been gaining popularity as a potential weight loss aid.
  • Spironolactone (Aldactone) can lower sodium, calcium, and magnesium levels in your blood.
Additionally, ongoing research is investigating its use for heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF), a type of heart failure with limited treatment options. For example, research shows promise in using Spironolactone to treat resistant hypertension, a condition where blood pressure remains high despite multiple medications. Below are typical adult doses, but it is essential to consult your healthcare provider before making any changes. Always consult your healthcare provider before starting or adjusting your dosage. Spironolactone is commonly prescribed to manage conditions such as heart failure, high blood pressure, and fluid retention (edema). Two recent trials4,10 using topical spironolactone as AGA treatment were attractive. In four of the five records,11–14 with a total of 195 participants, 81% (158/195) of them reported improvement in hair growth by photographic assessment or diverse scores after receiving spironolactone at doses ranging between 25mg and 200mg daily, with the vast majority from 80mg to 110 mg, alone or in combination with other therapies. The objective of this systematic review is to evaluate the efficacy and safety of spironolactone at different doses and dosage forms in the application of AGA treatment. However, considering the chronic duration of AGA treatment and possible side effects of monotherapy, many other alternative drugs such as dutasteride, prostaglandin analogs, hormonal therapy, and ketoconazole have also been used in treating AGA.4 Treatment methods include oral, topical, percutaneous injection and other ways. Minoxidil is a potassium channel opener, which can stimulate the proliferation of hair follicle epithelial cells and promote hair growth. Unpacking Spironolactone: Does It Really Cause Weight Loss? Additionally, spironolactone can also cause you to lost water weight and decrease your body fat. So, be sure to watch your weight while taking spironolactone, and weigh yourself regularly while taking the medication to make sure you’re not gaining too much weight. However, spironolactone may also cause weight gain if it causes your body to become less active overall. However, spironolactone can cause weight gain, so it’s important to be sure you understand how it works and what risks there are before taking it. While the exact cause isn’t fully clear, research suggests that it usually happens as women get older and go through menopause. At Oana Health, we believe in empowering women with facts—not fear. Spironolactone - spironolactone tablet, film coated package insert. Certain high-potassium foods, such as orange juice, should also be consumed with caution. Recent studies from the Journal of Endocrinology highlight the importance of healthy fats in hormone regulation. A healthy liver can help regulate hormone levels and support overall metabolic function. Spironolactone is a diuretic medication that can help manage PCOS symptoms by blocking the effects of androgens (male hormones) like testosterone. For women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), weight management can be a significant challenge.