Hair loss drug Spironolactone not tied to recurrence risk in breast cancer patients
WASHINGTON - Spironolactone is not associated with increased risk of female breast cancer recurrence, according to research from the George Washington University (GW) Department of Dermatology. The study, published in the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, found that the drug may be safe for use in treating breast cancer survivors with female pattern hair loss.
Androgens contribute significantly to the pathogenesis of female patterned hair loss. The current treatment of topically applied minoxidil (also known as Rogaine), thought to increase scalp blood flow and maintain hair growth, is approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. However, antiandrogen drugs, like spironolactone, have also been used to treat female patterned hair loss, but used off-label. Research confirming the safety of this drug for breast cancer survivors is critical for patients considering this treatment option.
"Spironolactone is used for androgenic alopecia because of its ability to halt the progression of hair loss and its long-term safety profile," said Adam Friedman, MD, interim chair and professor in the Department of Dermatology at the GW School of Medicine and Health Sciences, director of the Supportive Oncodermatology Clinic at GW Cancer Center, and the senior author on the study. "However, little is known about its safety in breast cancer survivors, which is of concern considering the drug's estrogenic effects could pose a theoretical risk of breast cancer recurrence."
Disclaimer: This website is primarily for healthcare professionals. The content here does not replace medical advice and should not be used as medical, diagnostic, endorsement, treatment, or prescription advice. Medical science evolves rapidly, and we strive to keep our information current. If you find any discrepancies, please contact us at corrections@medicaldialogues.in. Read our Correction Policy here. Nothing here should be used as a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. We do not endorse any healthcare advice that contradicts a physician's guidance. Use of this site is subject to our Terms of Use, Privacy Policy, and Advertisement Policy. For more details, read our Full Disclaimer here.
NOTE: Join us in combating medical misinformation. If you encounter a questionable health, medical, or medical education claim, email us at factcheck@medicaldialogues.in for evaluation.