Young Women Taking Spironolactone for Acne Don't Have Increased Rate of Hyperkalemia

By Kelly Young

Edited by Susan Sadoughi, MD, and André Sofair, MD, MPH

Regular potassium monitoring may not be required in young women prescribed spironolactone for acne, according to a study in JAMA Dermatology that was presented at the American Academy of Dermatology's annual meeting. The FDA normally recommends potassium monitoring for patients taking spironolactone, which retains potassium.

Researchers reviewed medical records of 1000 healthy women aged 18 to 45 who were prescribed spironolactone for acne. Of the 1800 serum potassium measurements taken over 14 years, 13 (0.72%) were indicative of mild hyperkalemia (5.1–6.0 mEq/L), which is similar to the baseline rate in this population. Six patients were retested, and all had normal values on subsequent tests.

The authors conclude: "The low rate of hyperkalemia may encourage more health care professionals to consider the use of this highly effective drug in their clinical practice."

An editorialist still recommends that physicians "do a thorough review of a patient's medications and medical history to ensure safety with spironolactone use."