✨ Episode Overview:
In this episode of PCOS Answers, Caitlin breaks down the two most commonly prescribed medications for managing high androgens in PCOS: spironolactone and oral contraceptives (birth control pills). If you’re struggling with acne, excess facial or body hair, or thinning hair, this is the essential episode to help you understand how these medications work, the pros and cons, and what to discuss with your doctor.
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🩺 Spironolactone- How it works:
- Blocks androgen receptors
- Mild diuretic to help flush excess androgens
- Dosage:
- Typically 50–200 mg/day (often split into two doses)
- Helps with:
- Acne, excess facial/body hair, hair thinning
- Side effects:
- Frequent urination, breast tenderness, low potassium
- Caitlin’s tip: Add potassium-rich foods (bananas, avocado, beans, dairy)
- Important caution:
- Not safe when trying to conceive; allow for a washout period
- Results timeline:
- Acne: improvement in weeks; hair changes: 3–6 months
- How they work:
- Suppress ovulation and testosterone production
- Increase SHBG to block free testosterone effects
- Helps with:
- Acne, hirsutism, hair loss
- Benefits:
- Dual purpose: symptom control + birth control
- Side effects:
- Low libido, possible clitoral shrinkage, mood changes
- Increased risk of blood clots (especially with family history)
- Planning tip:
- Have a 6–12 month exit plan before trying to conceive