Too old for Dianette but hair loss & acne without it

[largeprintagathachristie]

I've been in Dianette for polycystic ovaries basically forever. At least 20 years. Not quite sure how this happened but it turned out I had an extremely lax GP. Polycystic ovary syndrome symptoms for me are hair loss and acne rather than excess hair. Dianette controlled those really well and whenever I took a break, back they would come.

I'm 48 and a new GP looked askance at me still being on it. Was referred to an endocrinologist to discuss risks and benefits. Essentially, I'm lower risk. The endocrinologist said I should trial without Dianette but said he "did not think there is an absolute contraindication to taking it if required."

Three months on and my chin is full of acne and my hairloss has ramped up. Am I crazy (and vain) to go back on Dianette?

Complicated by the fact that I must be peri-menopausal and really have no idea how that should be factored in. I've had one period which was bang on time after coming off Dianette, then nothing for two months.

[Sarahlouiseis33]

Hello, just wondering if you’re still on here and what the outcome was? Did you go back on the dianette? I’m much the same - hair loss without dianette. Not sure if mine is PCOS but it’s definitely hormonal!

[Ron1984]

I used to be on dianette for the same reasons. Research and see your endo to see if spironolactone is right for you. It’s worked for me but it does have some side effects

[Sarahlouiseis33]

@Ron1984 - Do you mind me asking what side effects you’ve had from the spironolactone? Also how long does it take to work and what dosage you are on? Does it help with hair loss? Sorry for all the questions!

[Ron1984]

@Sarahlouiseis33

50mg worked for me. It does take a while to work maybe up to six months, it’s an off label fix so you will need to see an endo to see if it’s right for you. It does mess with your periods and it is not advisable to get pregnant whilst on it. It really helps with skin and hair issues

[Sarahlouiseis33]

@Ron1984 - thank you! Are you in the U.K.? Does it stop hairloss?