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Hormones & Acne

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 - To help suppress the androgen produced by the adrenal glands, such as:
    • Prednisone (Deltasone ®)
    • Dexamethasone (Decadron ®, Hexadrol ®)
  • Antiandrogen Drugs - To reduce the excessive oil production, such as:

Side Effects
Some possible side effects of antiandrogen drugs:

  • Irregular menstruation
  • Tender breasts
  • Headaches
  • Fatigue

References:
National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases (NIAMS)
www.niams.nih.gov/
U.S. Department of Health and Human Services
www.4woman.gov/
January 2005 - 2006

This summary does not include everything there is to know about the medicine mentioned above. Do not use this medicine without first talking to your doctor. Other brand names or generic forms of this medicine may also be available. Side effects other than those listed above may occur. This medicine may be prescribed for other uses. If you have questions or concerns, or want more information, your doctor or pharmacist has the complete prescribing information about this medicine and possible drug interactions.