What is the recommended dosage for Spironolactone?

Hair Loss: 100-200 mg/day (prescription)

What are the side effects of Spironolactone?

Potential side effects include: Menstrual irregularities, Breast tenderness, Hyperkalemia (elevated potassium levels), Dizziness and orthostatic hypotension, Frequent urination.

How does spironolactone work for hair loss?

Spironolactone is a prescription anti-androgen medication that blocks androgen receptors and reduces androgen production. By lowering the effects of DHT on hair follicles, it may help slow hair thinning in women with androgenetic alopecia. A 2020 systematic review in the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology found that 100-200 mg daily may improve hair density in women. It is not recommended for use in men due to hormonal side effects.

Is spironolactone safe for long-term use for hair?

Spironolactone has been used for decades as a blood pressure medication and is generally well-tolerated for off-label hair loss use. Common side effects include breast tenderness, irregular periods, and dizziness. Regular monitoring of potassium levels is recommended since it is potassium-sparing. Women of childbearing age must use contraception, as spironolactone can cause birth defects. Always use under medical supervision.

What dosage of spironolactone is used for hair loss?

Clinical studies on spironolactone for female pattern hair loss have used doses ranging from 25 mg to 200 mg daily. Research across 19 studies with 5,743 participants supports Grade A (Strong) evidence, with most studies using 100 to 200 mg per day for hair retention outcomes. Starting doses are often lower (25-50 mg) and titrated upward based on tolerability and response. Spironolactone is a prescription medication requiring medical supervision.

How long does spironolactone take to work for hair loss?

Clinical trials on spironolactone for female pattern hair loss typically show measurable improvements at 6 to 12 months of treatment. Research across 19 studies with 5,743 participants indicates that hair stabilization (reduced shedding) may occur before new growth becomes visible. Like other anti-androgen treatments, continued use is generally required to maintain results — discontinuation typically leads to gradual return of hair loss.

Can spironolactone be used by men for hair loss?

Spironolactone is rarely prescribed to men for hair loss due to its anti-androgen effects, which can cause gynecomastia (breast tissue development), loss of libido, and erectile dysfunction. While the Grade A (Strong) evidence from 25 studies with 6,273 participants for androgenetic alopecia includes some male data, spironolactone is primarily reserved for women in hair loss practice. Finasteride or dutasteride are preferred anti-DHT options for men.

Spironolactone

pharmaceutical

Also known as: Aldactone

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About

Spironolactone is a prescription potassium-sparing diuretic with anti-androgenic properties, commonly used off-label for female pattern hair loss. It blocks androgen receptors and reduces androgen production, making it effective for hormone-mediated hair loss in women.

How It Works

Androgen receptor antagonist; reduces androgen-mediated follicular miniaturization in female pattern hair loss.

Evidence For Conditions

Condition	Grade	Studies	Participants
Androgenetic Alopecia	A	45	6472	View →
Female Pattern Hair Loss	A	45	6441	View →

Side Effects

Menstrual irregularities
Breast tenderness
Hyperkalemia (elevated potassium levels)
Dizziness and orthostatic hypotension
Frequent urination

Drug & Supplement Interactions

ACE inhibitors and ARBs (increased hyperkalemia risk)
Potassium supplements and potassium-sparing diuretics (dangerous hyperkalemia)
NSAIDs (may reduce diuretic effectiveness and increase kidney risk)
Digoxin (spironolactone may increase digoxin levels)

Always inform your healthcare provider about all supplements you take.

Related Ingredients

Dutasteride Finasteride Minoxidil

Quick Facts

Dosage: Hair_Loss: 100-200 mg/day (prescription)
Forms: tablet
Upper Limit: 200 mg/day (hair loss indication)
Best Time: Once or twice daily with food; prescription required

Evidence Summary

Androgenetic Alopecia A

Female Pattern Hair Loss A

FDA Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. The products and information on this website are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. The evidence grades presented are based on our analysis of published peer-reviewed research and do not constitute medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider before starting any supplement regimen.