Treatments for Hormonally Influenced Acne in Women
In some women, acne is caused by an excess of androgen (male) hormones. Clues that this may be the case include hirsutism (excessive growth of hair on the face or body), premenstrual acne flares, irregular menstrual cycles, and elevated blood levels of certain androgens.
The doctor may prescribe one of several drugs to treat women with this type of acne:
* Birth control pills – to help suppress the androgen produced by the ovaries
* Low-dose corticosteroid drugs, such as prednisone (Deltasone) or dexamethasone (Decadron, Hexadrol) – to help suppress the androgen produced by the adrenal glands
* Antiandrogen drugs such as spironolactone (Aldactone) – to reduce the excessive oil production.
Side effects of antiandrogen drugs may include irregular menstruation, tender breasts, headaches, and fatigue.
