Spironolactone is an oral medication primarily known to block the effects of male hormones called androgens, including DHT (dihydrotestosterone), a hormone responsible for hair loss. These hormones play roles in hair growth, oil production in the skin, and other processes. While spironolactone is frequently used for treating acne and excessive facial hair growth, it is also used in addressing female pattern hair loss (AGA).

Spironolactone (50mg): An FDA-approved oral medication initially intended for managing fluid retention and high blood pressure, now finds a new purpose off-label in the fight against hair loss. Its key strength lies in its ability to block androgens, including DHT (dihydrotestosterone), a hormone responsible for hair loss. These actions directly influence the health of hair follicles, making it a potent tool for combatting hair loss in women.

Take one capsule by mouth once per day.

Exact dosages will be determined by your Tangl dermatology provider.

Women can experience hair loss due to various factors, including genetics, hormonal changes (such as menopause, PCOS, birth control changes, and postpartum), medical conditions (like thyroid disorders and autoimmune diseases), nutritional deficiencies, stress, damaging hairstyling practices, certain medications, aging, and trauma. The most common forms of hair loss in women are Androgenetic Alopecia (a genetic condition causing thinning hair and pattern baldness) and Telogen Effluvium (temporary hair shedding due to stress, illness, surgery, shock to the system, or other transient factors, which can sometimes become chronic or even unmask underlying Androgenetic Alopecia). The specific cause varies and often requires evaluation by a healthcare professional to determine the underlying reason and appropriate treatment options.

The good news is that we're here to help. At Tangl, we're committed to developing the most advanced, thoroughly vetted, and carefully curated treatments to provide a personalized solution for your unique hair journey.

Oral spironolactone is best suited for premenopausal women experiencing hair loss, thinning, shedding, or weakening of their existing hair. It may be especially beneficial for those with AGA (androgenetic alopecia), PCOS-related hair loss, and other hormone-related hair conditions.

Do not use if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or planning to become pregnant. Do not use if you a history of cancer, heart failure, kidney problems or liver problems.

Do not use if you are currently taking certain medications; you must read the full Drug Safety Information for Oral Spironolactone.

Always ask your healthcare provider about seeking treatment with Oral Spironolactone.

Tangl treatments are not appropriate for some types of hair loss, including inflammatory/scarring types of hair loss (scarring, or cicatricial alopecia). If you have active symptoms of inflammation on your scalp (pain, redness, severe itching, active rash, sores, pus bumps) it is advised that you get in person evaluation and treatment to control these symptoms prior to starting hair loss therapy. 

No, you should not use topical Spironolactone if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or planning to become pregnant.

Oral spironolactone works by blocking the effects of androgens (male hormones) in the body. Specifically, it acts as an anti-androgen by binding to androgen receptors and reducing the influence of these hormones on the hair follicles. Androgens can contribute to hair thinning and loss in women by shrinking hair follicles and shortening the growth phase. By blocking androgen activity, spironolactone helps to counteract this process, leading to the preservation of existing hair and, in some cases, stimulating the growth of new, thicker hair.

Spironolactone is an oral medication that helps reduce hair loss and promote hair growth by blocking the effects of androgens such as DHT, which can contribute to androgenetic alopecia, PCOS hair loss and other forms of hormone-driven hair loss. Typically, improvements can be observed within 3 to 6 months of consistent use, with users experiencing reduced hair shedding and thicker, fuller hair.

Spiroxidil, on the other hand, is a topical compound specifically formulated to combat conditions like androgenetic alopecia and hormone-related hair loss. It's a multifaceted treatment that blends Spironolactone and Minoxidil with additional active ingredients such as Cetirizine, Caffeine, and Melatonin. This combination addresses hair loss comprehensively, stimulating hair follicles and enhancing hair growth.

These two treatments can be used together, offering a dual approach to achieving hair growth and stopping hair loss both internally and topically.

Hair growth is a slow process and it can take several months to see substantial results. It can take 3 to 6 months to evaluate the effects of your Oral Spironolactone treatment, but for some patients the full effect may only be visible after 7-12 months. It is important to stay on the medication and follow your doctor's instructions for best results. 

It's very common to experience increased hair shedding when starting this treatment. This is sometimes referred to as the “Dread Shed”, but is medically known as "immediate telogen release.” It refers to an increased shedding of hair that individuals notice within 1-3 months of starting a new treatment for hair loss. Shedding is a positive sign that the treatment is working, is typically a temporary phase as hair follicles regenerate, and generally leads to better hair quality and density. Shedding varies among patients. For optimal results, avoid damaging hairstyles, tight braids, over-processing, and excessive heat styling.

Always consult your Tangl dermatologist for personalized advice.

• Unwanted hair growth on the face or body (hypertrichosis) 
• Increased urination
• Headache or nausea
• Insomnia or changes in energy levels   
• Changes in libido and menstrual cycle (e.g. irregular or absent periods)   
• Worsening of renal (kidney) or hepatic (liver) function
• Digestive abnormalities including bleeding and vomiting
• Electrolyte and metabolic abnormalities
• Feeling faint, shortness of breath, or difficulty breathing
• Increase in potassium (hyperkalemia)
• Gynecomastia/breast tenderness/increase in breast size
• Impaired neurological function
• Hair shedding: It's common to experience increased hair shedding initially. This is typically a temporary phase as hair follicles regenerate. 
• Some may also experience changes in hair texture and color. 

These are not all the possible side effects of spironolactone. For more information, read the Drug Safety Information. Be sure to ask your healthcare provider about seeking treatment with Oral Spironolactone.

It is important to stop therapy and seek medical attention in any case of serious side effects.