Spironolactone (for women)
Also called Aldactone, spiro
An anti-androgen some derms use for female pattern loss and PCOS.
- Evidence
- Moderate
- Status in PH
- Rx
- Typical monthly cost
- [TODO: price]
- Where it acts
- Mid-scalpWhole scalp
- Time to see results
- 6 to 12 months
Spironolactone is a diuretic that also blocks androgen effects. For female pattern hair loss, an Australian study found oral anti-androgens, including spironolactone, stopped progression or improved hair in many women over 12 months[1]. It is not used in pregnancy, so doctors pair it with contraception.
PH women report uneven prescribing: one derm gave it, another "won't prescribe fin or spiro"[2]. It needs a doctor who can check potassium and blood pressure.
What people worry about
In readers' own words, from Filipino Reddit threads. Then our answer.
Prices and where to buy
[TODO: verified PH retail price]
Sold at: Mercury Drug, Watsons, Hospital pharmacies.
Related on the map
Female pattern hair loss
ConditionAlso called FPHL, female androgenetic alopecia, Ludwig
A widening part with the hairline kept. Very treatable when caught early.
PCOS hair loss
ConditionAlso called polycystic ovary syndrome hair loss
Androgen-driven thinning on top. Needs both an OB-GYN or endo and a derm.
Also called Regroe, Rogaine, Kirkland minoxidil
The first-line topical for men and women. Expect a shed before growth.
More in Mid-scalp and part line.
Questions people ask
Can women take spironolactone for hair loss?
Some dermatologists prescribe it off-label for female pattern loss and PCOS-related thinning[1]. It requires a prescription and monitoring.
This guide is for information. Talk to a doctor or dermatologist before starting any prescription treatment.
Citations
- 1Treatment of female pattern hair loss with oral antiandrogens. Br J Dermatol, 2005.
- 2No more hair fall. r/PCOSPhilippines. User reports, not medical evidence.
- 3Propecia (finasteride) prescribing information. US FDA label via DailyMed.
- 4Minoxidil topical solution 5% drug facts label. US OTC label via DailyMed.
- 5Lifelong minoxidil discussion. r/deinfluencingPH. User reports, not medical evidence.
Status tag key: Prescription (Rx).