Hormones for Acne :: Ortho Tri-Cyclen and Aldactone

Hormones for Acne: Ortho Tri-Cyclen and Aldactone

Acne is a four letter word that gives sleepless nights to millions of young adults between the age of 12 and 24 all over the world. Acne has no sex preferences or geographical boundaries and is a universal phenomenon that eats into the peace of mind of many! Acne tends to aggravate with hormonal changes in females, stress and poor skin care habits.

Though not conventional, many women are turning to non-contraceptive anti-androgen options in the treatment of their acne. Ortho Tri-Cyclen is essentially a birth control pill, which contains progesterone and estrogen. It decreases testosterone levels, which in turn decreases the severity of acne in women. Statistics reveal a 50% decrease in total acne lesions in patients undergoing the Tri-Cyclen course.

Albeit its primary function is birth control, it is being increasingly used in acne treatment these days. Ortho Tri-Cyclen decreases Androgens that stimulate acne vulgaris through excess sebum production. This class of Estrogen-containing oral contraceptives reduces the production of ovarian androgens thereby improving acne in women. They also curtail the levels of free testosterone by increasing the circulation of binding globulin.

Side effects of these antiandrogen drugs may include irregular menstruation, tender breasts, headaches, and fatigue.

Aldactone is a diuretic used in treating edema without potassium depletion and also in the treatment of high blood pressure. It is also commonly used to treat potassium deficiency and the hormonal disorder of hyperaldosteronism. By virtue of a molecular structure akin to androgen, this drug can bind to the androgen receptors and block the true androgen from binding.

There can be many side effects for this drug such as symptomatic low blood pressure, irregular menstrual cycles, spotting and higher levels of potassium in the bloodstream. Aldactone should be taken only as per the directions of your doctor, maintaining the correct dosages. You should not discontinue this medicine without doctor's permission. Avoid food items rich in potassium such as bananas.

Today, there are many new medicines and combinations for women who crave the benefits of an anti-androgen but want to be on oral contraceptives, or for those who want to be on contraceptives without the fear of the blot of water retention. Packed with virtues these wonder pills are touted as a sure shot remedy for all their woes!

In your quest for a perfect look, make sure that the opinion of your doctor is well thought out, before proceeding with any of these treatments.

Usha Hari

Hi-Tech Editorial Division