PCOS Treatment Options Help?

[Kim_8 2]

The doc mentioned something about trying Aldactone (mild diuretic)... says that's supposed to help. He'd like to possibly start me on that next month. Ah geez - I just looked it up on yahoo and it says that that is the Spironolactone! Go figure - get pocket book ready huh? Great.

Here's the info I got when I looked up Aldactone and hair on a search:

FYI... Looks like it costs about 150 - 160 for 90 pills....

Are there any prescription treatments for excess body and facial hair?

Excess body or facial hair, a condition known as hirsutism, can be caused by a number of different factors including heredity, certain drugs, and several medical conditions. Vaniqa (generic name eflornithine hydrochloride) is a new prescription cream for women that can reduce unwanted facial hair. Vaniqa seems to slow facial Hair growth by interfering with the enzyme that promotes hair growth.

Excess hair growth in women is sometimes due to conditions that cause the body to produce excess male hormones called androgens. An oversupply of androgens in the body can lead to excessive unwanted hair. Some prescription drugs can help reduce hair growth by blocking androgens. These include certain birth control pills, the diuretic spironolactone (brand name Aldactone), and flutamide (Eulexin). These drugs are usually reserved for women who have severe excess hair growth or hair growth that's difficult to remove with do-it-yourself methods.

What is spironolactone?

Spironolactone is in a class of drugs called potassium-sparing diuretics (water pill). It is used to reduce the amount of Fluid in your body without causing the loss of potassium.

Spironolactone is used to treat edema (swelling) and hypertension (high blood pressure).

Spironolactone is also used to treat potassium deficiency and hyperaldosteronism (a hormonal disorder).

Spironolactone may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.

What are the possible side effects of spironolactone?

Stop taking spironolactone and seek emergency medical attention if you experience any of the following serious side effects:

• an allergic reaction (difficulty breathing; closing of your throat; swelling of your lips, tongue, or face; or hives);
  
• an irregular heartbeat, shortness of breath, fatigue, confusion, weakness, numbness, or tingling (caused by high levels of potassium in your blood); or
  
• decreased urination.

Other, less serious side effects may be more likely to occur. Continue to take spironolactone and talk to your doctor if you experience

• unusual headache or dizziness;
  
• nausea, diarrhea, or a decrease in appetite;
  
• dry mouth;
  
• bloating;
  
• muscle cramps; or
  
• lowering of the voice, excessive hair growth, or enlarged breasts.

I LOVE the last side effect :grouphug: