TLDR Spironolactone does not increase cancer risk and may lower prostate cancer risk, but more research is needed.
A systematic review and meta-analysis of 7 observational studies, involving 4,528,332 individuals, found no significant increase in the risk of various types of cancer (breast, ovarian, bladder, kidney, gastric, or esophageal) associated with the use of spironolactone, a drug often used for acne, hidradenitis, androgenetic alopecia, and hirsutism. Interestingly, spironolactone use was linked to a decreased risk of prostate cancer. However, the certainty of the evidence was low due to potential limitations such as wide confidence intervals for rarer outcomes and the inability to examine dose-dependent associations. The study predominantly included older European individuals, which may not generalize to other populations or younger individuals. Future studies are needed, particularly among diverse populations such as younger individuals and those with acne or hirsutism.
855 citations,
June 2009 in “The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism” The guideline recommends mental health involvement in diagnosing gender identity disorder and outlines hormone and surgical treatment protocols, emphasizing safety, informed consent, and long-term monitoring.
research Acne
4 citations,
January 2019 Acne is a common skin condition that can be influenced by diet, lifestyle, and hormones, and requires a treatment approach that includes psychological considerations.
9 citations,
June 2020 in “Actas Dermo-Sifiliográficas” Spironolactone is effective for acne, hidradenitis suppurativa, female hair loss, and hirsutism but is underused in dermatology.
November 2020 in “Elsevier eBooks” Antiandrogens and androgen inhibitors like spironolactone, finasteride, and dutasteride can treat hair loss and skin conditions, but they have risks and side effects, including potential harm to pregnant women and risks of cancer and heart issues. Herbal remedies also have antiandrogenic effects but lack safety validation.
January 2019 in “ARC journal of pharmaceutical sciences” Acne can be managed with various treatments and requires psychological support due to its emotional impact.
41 citations,
June 2016 in “Reviews in endocrine and metabolic disorders” Hidradenitis suppurativa may be related to hormones and patients often have metabolic disorders; more research is needed to understand this connection.
99 citations,
December 2010 in “Journal of The European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology” The document concludes that certain genetic mutations and dietary factors are involved in acne development, and treatments like isotretinoin and diet changes can help manage it.
