Tag: Hirsutism

First approved in 1960, spironolactone is a versatile medication with a wide range of applications beyond its initial purpose as a diuretic. So, **what is spironolactone used for** in both FDA-approved and off-label capacities today?

According to the Merck Manual, increased body hair, known as hirsutism or hypertrichosis, can be a side effect of various medications. The question, **what drugs increase body hair?** is common for patients who notice unexpected changes while on a new treatment. Understanding which medications are responsible and the mechanism behind this growth is key to managing this side effect.

After the brand-name medication Vaniqa was discontinued in 2023, many women began seeking alternatives, and one of the most common questions is 'Is Eflora the same as Vaniqa?'. In fact, Eflora is a generic version of Vaniqa, containing the same active ingredient to treat unwanted facial hair.

Clinical studies have shown that consistent use of the active ingredient in the prescription cream Vaniqa can lead to noticeable improvements in unwanted facial hair in as little as 4 to 8 weeks. This topical treatment is specifically formulated to help women manage excessive hair growth on the face and chin.

According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), Vaniqa (eflornithine hydrochloride) cream is not approved for use by anyone younger than 12 years old. Understanding the specific guidelines regarding **what is the age limit for Vaniqa?** is crucial for safe and effective treatment of unwanted facial hair.

In clinical studies, up to 21% of users reported acne as a side effect, making skin-related issues the most common concern for those asking, 'What are the side effects of eflornithine cream?'. This medication, used to slow unwanted facial hair growth in women, is generally well-tolerated but can cause various reactions, from mild stinging to more serious complications.

Studies show that nearly 40% of women aged 45 and older report experiencing excess facial hair [1.4.2]. If you're wondering, **'Why is my face getting hairier as I get older?'**, the primary reason is often hormonal shifts related to aging, specifically menopause [1.4.2].

According to the World Health Organization, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a common condition affecting millions of women worldwide. Choosing the right medication is a critical step in managing its complex symptoms, leaving many to wonder, is metformin or spironolactone better for PCOS?.

Originally developed as a diuretic, spironolactone is now widely prescribed for its powerful anti-androgenic effects. The question, **'Is spironolactone a DHT blocker?'** can be answered with a qualified 'yes,' as it interferes with the hormone dihydrotestosterone (DHT) through multiple mechanisms, making it a versatile tool for treating conditions driven by excess androgens.

According to a 2013 review by the European Medicines Agency, Diane 35 should only be used for severe acne and hirsutism when other treatments have failed, and yes, it does function as an anti-androgen due to its active components. The medication, containing cyproterone acetate and ethinylestradiol, combines a direct blocking effect with a hormonal mechanism to reduce the influence of male hormones in women.