Spironolactone for the treatment of acne vulgaris affecting female patients aged ≤ 18 years

A survey of UK and Irish healthcare professionals was distributed via the UK Dermatology Clinical Trials Network, British Society for Paediatric and Adolescent Dermatologists, Irish Association of Dermatologists and other regional groups. The aim was to understand how healthcare professionals prescribe spironolactone for female patients, with a particular focus on those aged ≤ 18 years, as well as concerns regarding side effects and thoughts about a future clinical trial. A total of 116 responses were received from healthcare professionals, including dermatologists, dermatology nurses, paediatricians, general practitioners and pharmacists. The results showed that there is varied clinical practice and confidence among healthcare professionals treating this population with spironolactone, with the main safety concerns being around hormonal implications, future pregnancies and lack of long-term data.

Abstract from PubMed