Spironolactone for hair loss

Loss of scalp hair as you age is a natural process; this loss can either be permanent or a short-term loss. It occurs due to many reasons viz., changes in hormone levels, onset of ailments, genetic factors, aging, etc. Among men, hair loss on head is quite a common thing. Can you use spironolactone for hair loss? It pays to have deeper insights into it.

Going bald refers to loss of scalp hair. Genetic factors play a key role in most forms of baldness. These losses can show-up in multiple ways; pattern varies based on the underlying cause. You may encounter it either gradually or all of a sudden. It may affect your entire body or your scalp alone. Typical signs of the loss of hair are thinning, formation of circular forms of bald patches, sudden or gradual hair-loosening, etc. Of these signs, thinning of hair is a very common symptom. Among males, hair recedes off their foreheads. In case of females, part in their hair widens.

Spironolactone vs finasteride for female hair loss

Spironolactone belongs to a genre called aldosterone-receptor agonists. It is used for treating female pattern baldness caused by excessive production of sex-hormones. This med is used when other treatment plans have failed to yield required result.

Finasteride is another medication used for treating hair loss. Extent of side effects finasteride causes is much lesser as compared to spironolactone. Also, finasteride is known to be more effective than several other counterparts – including spironolactone. However, clinical studies comparing these two meds i.e., spironolactone and finasteride – are rarely done. Hence, the results remain unclear.

Women using finasteride may feel less dizzy than those using spironolactone. Other side effects such as migraines, increase in body weight, tiredness, internal bleeding, erratic menstrual cycles and formation of ulcers are quite common while using either of these two meds.

Is 50 mg of spironolactone enough for hair loss?

Initial dose of spironolactone for hair loss hovers at 25 milligrams (mg) per day. Your treating physician checks for adverse side effects due to intolerance. If your body is not responding in an adverse fashion, your physician may increase dosages in a gradual manner wherein dosing-strength may reach up-to 100 mg per day.

Spironolactone can make you dizzy, and is hence taken during bedtime. You can have it either before or after a meal. There are a few rare cases wherein your physician may prescribe spironolactone and minoxidil as a combinatorial dosage.

Dosage strength and duration of treatment plan varies depending on severity of hair loss, and also on intake of other drugs – if any. At higher doses, you may encounter episodes of hypotension i.e., a drastic drop in blood pressure level. Those who are taking antihypertensives to reduce elevated pressure levels are advised to tell their physicians of their medication plans.

Caveat: If your medication plan involves intake of drugs like amlodipine losartan, clonidine, or enalapril / ramipril. Your caregiving team should know of your dosage plans.

How does spironolactone work for hair loss?

Spironolactone is one of the aldosterone-receptor agonists. It blocks aldosterone binding itself with receptor-cells in your renal system. This action exerts needful control over water and salt levels in the body. Inhibiting aldosterone also enhances discharge of salts – such as sodium – through urine. This action also regulates blood-flow to all parts of the body – including hair-follicles. This is believed as a prime-reason for spironolactone to treat loss of hair – either on scalp or other parts.

While taking spironolactone, you may experience acute spells of drowsiness; owing to which, it is unsafe to work on heavy machines or drive vehicles. It is highly recommended to stay away from sporting actions like running or swimming.

How Long Does Spironolactone Take To Start Working For Acne? Spironolactone typically begins to show effects on acne within a few weeks, but it can take up to three months to see significant improvement. Its effectiveness varies based on the dose and individual response. Consistent use is crucial, as the drug works by reducing androgen levels, which in turn decreases oil production and can lead to clearer skin.

In order to have more insights into how spironolactone treats hair loss – especially among women, consult with a qualified caregiver or a dermatologist i.e., skin physician.

Disclaimer

Information provided here are only of supplementary nature. Information shared here does not substitute a qualified doctor’s advice. This website is not suggesting intake of this drug as safe or appropriate. Hence it is advised to talk to your doctor before consuming this med or any other drug.