Be sure to tell your doctor all of the supplements and vitamins you are taking and report any breast discharge. If possible, bring photographs to your doctor visit to demonstrate changes in hair growth. If simple tests and medical history do not identify the source of excess androgen, further testing is available through a specialist. Treatments With PCO, or when the cause is elusive, birth control pills can be used to limit hair growth. The birth control pill works by rendering some of the circulating androgen inactive.
Adrenal hyperplasia is treated with a different hormonal antidote.
A number of other medications have proven helpful. Spironolactone, a diuretic, inhibits androgen production. Ketoconazole, an antifungal drug, also blocks the creation of male hormones. For women with minimal facial hair, there are a number of options, but all have drawbacks. Temporary solutions such as shaving and depilatories can provoke skin irritation.