Medications · FAQ
Which PCOS symptoms can spironolactone treat?
Short answer
Spironolactone may help androgen-related PCOS symptoms, such as acne and unwanted facial or body hair. Results vary. It is used off-label and does not treat every part of PCOS. It is not a fertility medicine or birth control, and pregnancy prevention needs review before treatment.
Polycystic ovary syndrome, or PCOS, can involve irregular periods and higher androgen activity. Spironolactone may help with androgen-related acne and unwanted facial or body hair. Results vary. It is used off-label for these symptoms and is not a cure for PCOS.
Spironolactone does not address every health concern linked with PCOS. It is not a treatment to trigger ovulation, and it does not replace care for blood sugar, cholesterol, or the uterine lining. It can also cause irregular bleeding, so a change in periods should not automatically be viewed as a sign that PCOS is improving.
Your care plan may include other medicines or lifestyle support based on your goals and health history. Tell your physician if you want to become pregnant, have long gaps between periods, or notice rapidly increasing facial hair or voice changes. These concerns may need a separate evaluation. Spironolactone is not birth control and is not used during pregnancy. Discuss reliable pregnancy prevention if you could become pregnant.
Sources
Written by the Verra clinical team · Medical review pending
General information, not medical advice. If you're in crisis, call or text 988.