Scientists from the University of Southampton have found that the drug spironolactone is an effective treatment for acne (pimples) in women. Research published british medical journal.
The study included more than 400 women over the age of 18 who had persistent acne for more than six months at the start of the study. All participants had also previously taken oral antibiotics for acne. Half of the patients were given spironolactone and the other half received placebo. The results showed that women who took spironolactone had a significant improvement in acne at three months and six months compared to women who took a placebo.
Spironolactone is an inexpensive drug that has been used for decades to treat high blood pressure. The drug also reduces the level of the main hormone that leads to the development of acne. Many doctors have prescribed it to their patients, but previous studies have been very small so there has been no conclusive evidence that it is truly effective.
Scientists believe their work will help many women avoid the harm that antimicrobial resistance can cause. The drug is already included in recommendations for the treatment of persistent acne in the USA and Europe.