Spironolactone (Aldactone) Oral Acne Medication

Spironolactone is taken by mouth in either tablet form or an oral suspension liquid. Tablets are prescribed according to the treatment and patient history and come in three different strengths: 25mg, 50mg, or 100 mg, 

Typical tablet counts are:

• 25mg and 100mg tablets: 30, 45, 60, 90, 180 per bottle
• 50mg tablets: 30, 45, 60, 90, 180, 270 per bottle

Tablets are taken by mouth either once or twice a day, depending on the doctor's instructions. Tablets may cause stomach upset; you should take the pill with food if this happens to you. Be sure to take the tablet at the same time each day and in the same manner, so if you take the pill with food, take it with food from here on out. Taking your medication a few hours before bedtime can reduce sleep interruptions caused by late-night trips to the bathroom.

The oral suspension liquid comes in 118mL and 473mL bottles. If you're prescribed the oral suspension liquid, shake the container well and use the included device/spoon/cup to ensure the correct dosage. To prevent over or under-dosing, avoid using household spoons to measure your dose. As with tablets, take your medication at the same time every day and in the same manner — with or without food.

People with elevated blood pressure may not feel sick, so continue taking your medication even if you feel well. Never decrease, increase, or stop taking your medication without consulting with your doctor to prevent worsening your condition.

Keep the container tightly closed and store your medication at room temperature and away from sunlight and heat. Keep this and all medications away from children and pets, and never share your medication.

Spironolactone is available at most pharmacies and may be covered by insurance. Check with your provider to find out if your medication is covered and determine your out-of-pocket costs.

At Nurx, we can prescribe Spironolactone as part of an acne treatment plan, whether or not you're insured. After reviewing your medical history, Nurx medical providers will prescribe Spironolactone, if appropriate.

Spironolactone may contribute to elevated potassium, especially for those with existing kidney problems. Elevations of this mineral can be dangerous and result in a slow or irregular heartbeat or muscle weakness. While taking Spironolactone, limit foods high in potassium like bananas, tomatoes, potatoes, prunes, raisins, orange juice, and low-salt milk.

Talk to your doctor about allergies. Even if you have no allergy to Spironolactone, tablets and liquid may contain inert ingredients that could trigger an allergic reaction. Although these reactions are rare, get medical help right away if you experience symptoms of an allergic reaction such as rash, itching or swelling of the face, tongue, or throat, severe dizziness, or trouble breathing.

Spironolactone can make you drowsy. Avoid alcoholic beverages or marijuana, as these can increase the effect. Do not drive or perform similar functions that require your full attention.

Studies are inconclusive about Spironolactone's effect on pregnancy and breastfeeding, but it's always a good idea to talk to your doctor if you're pregnant or thinking about becoming pregnant before starting this medication. 

Speak with your Nurx medical provider to be sure Spironolactone is right for you.  

Side effects are fairly common and typically happen as the body adjusts to medication. Side effects usually abate on their own with continued use of your medicine. Older adults may find they are more sensitive to side effects.

Common side effects reported by Spironolactone users are drowsiness, lightheadedness, stomach upset, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, or headache. To reduce instances of lightheadedness, rise slowly from a lying or sitting position to allow your blood pressure time to adjust. Notify your doctor if symptoms persist or worsen.

Serious side effects are rare but can occur. Alert us if you experience serious side effects such as increased thirst, changes in urine production, mood changes, unexplained fatigue, muscle spasm, period changes, or changes in the breast.

Spironolactone can interact with other medications to worsen your condition or interfere with medications and reduce their effectiveness. Tell your doctor about all prescription and over-the-counter medications or remedies along with herbal supplements you're taking to determine if Spironolactone is right for you.

Let your doctor know about specific medications such as lithium or drugs with potassium. These drugs include amiloride, cyclosporine, eplerenone, tacrolimus, triamterene, or birth control pills that contain drospirenone. Avoid the risk of elevated potassium levels by not taking supplements while you're taking Spironolactone unless you have your doctor's okay. Tell your doctor about your use of cold remedies and ibuprofen.

Spironolactone can interfere with lab results and cause false test results. Tell your doctor about tests or surgeries you have scheduled or plan to schedule. 

Yes! We carry Spironolactone and can prescribe it as an acne treatment, if appropriate. Spironolactone is the generic version of Aldactone (tablet)  and is as safe and effective as the brand name, and often costs much less.

Here at Nurx, we aim to get your medication to you so you can begin your treatment right away. Your medication usually arrives within a week, and we pay for delivery. Medication is discreetly delivered to your mailbox or you can pick up your medication from your local pharmacy at your convenience.

Spironolactone is manufactured by Cadila Healthcare Ltd., located in Baddi, India, and distributed by Sun Pharmaceutical Industries, Inc., located in Cranbury, New Jersey.

Spironolactone works by controlling naturally occurring hormones to reduce oil production and keep pores clear. Since men and women both produce hormones like testosterone, the medication works internally by regulating the production of testosterone to result in clearer skin. Because of the reduction in testosterone, men should not use Spironolactone as an acne treatment.

Typically, results occur within the first few weeks of use. Skin continues to improve with consistent and regular use of your medication.

Spironolactone works by reducing the effects of the naturally occurring hormone aldosterone's effect on the blood vessels. In addition to the medication, you can help make it more effective by making a few lifestyle changes to support better health. Do this by reducing your intake of salt (sodium), getting plenty of exercise, and working to reduce your stress.

If you miss taking your medication, take it as soon as you remember. If you remember late and it's now close to the second dose (if applicable), take your regular dose and resume your normal schedule the following day. Don't increase your dose or try to catch up since this can cause adverse effects and won't improve your condition.

Nurx is a free platform offering easy online access to doctors and seamless delivery of medications. No more time-consuming trips to the clinic and no more frantic pharmacy runs. We put you in control of your own health, empowering you to get the care you need, when you need it. From diagnosis to delivery of prescriptions, we make every part of getting healthy and staying healthy, better. For more information and to sign up, visit www.nurx.com and follow us @nurxapp on Twitter and Instagram.