A Novel Use of Spironolactone: Treatment of Hirsutism

In a study conducted in 1980, spironolactone was tested for its antiandrogenic effects on 30 women with hirsutism, a condition characterized by excessive hair growth due to high levels of androgens. The treatment involved administering spironolactone from the 4th to the 22nd day of the menstrual cycle, resulting in a significant reduction of hair growth in 23 patients after 3-5 months. Additionally, all patients experienced a decrease in serum testosterone levels, and 25 saw an increase in estradiol. The study concluded that spironolactone's antiandrogenic properties make it an effective treatment for hirsutism, with moderate side effects that did not necessitate discontinuation of therapy.