spironolactone in female pattern hair loss (FPHL)
Last reviewed 01/2018
- spironolactone is an aldosterone antagonist used in the treatment
of hypertension and has also been used in the treatment of FPHL
- spironolactone also possesses antiandrogenic properties, acting as an androgen receptor antagonist and reducing the levels of cytochrome P450-dependent enzymes 17beta-hydroxylase and desmolase, which are both required for androgen synthesis
- spironolactone has been shown to be safe and effective in the treatment of female pattern hair loss (FPHL) in adults
Reference:
- 1. Sinclair R, Wewerinke M, Jolley D. Treatment of female pattern hair loss with oral antiandrogens. Br. J. Dermatol. 2005; 152: 466-73.