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Contraindicated · Anti-Androgen

Can you use Spironolactone (Topical & Oral) during pregnancy?

⚠️Medical Deferral Notice

Strictly contraindicated during pregnancy. Discontinue under obstetric guidance. Cosmetic classifications are formulation flags to discuss with your healthcare provider, not medical clearance.

Clinical Summary

An aldosterone and androgen receptor antagonist that risks anti-androgenic disruption of male fetal genitalia.

Pharmacological Mechanism & Teratogenic Context

Spironolactone blocks dihydrotestosterone (DHT) binding to androgen receptors. Systemic exposure during the critical organogenesis window of sexual differentiation (gestational weeks 8–14) can induce feminization of male fetuses (hypospadias and impaired genital development).

Common INCI Names on Packaging
SpironolactoneWinlevi (Clascoterone analog)
Permitted Alternatives During Pregnancy
  • ✓Topical Azelaic Acid 15%
  • ✓Topical Clindamycin 1% (with OBGYN approval)
  • ✓Gentle salicylic acid wash (<2% rinse-off)

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