Does Treatment of Androgen Excess Using Spironolactone Improve Ovulatory Rates in Girls With Androgen Excess?
Adolescent girls with androgen excess have a higher rate of irregular periods and decreased ovulation rates compared to normal girls, and are considered at-risk for developing polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). This pilot study will look at whether giving spironolactone might improve ovulation rates in girls with androgen excess, ages 13-19. If this is true, spironolactone treatment to young girls might prevent PCOS from developing and avoid future infertility.
• Girls age 13 - 19 years, with clinical or biochemical HA (defined as hirsutism and/or elevated Tanner stage-specific free testosterone concentrations) that are 4-6 years post-menarche
• Screening labs within age-appropriate normal range
• Volunteers who are 18-19 y old must be willing and able to provide written informed consent.
• When the subject is a minor (i.e., age \< 18 y), the subject and custodial parents must be willing and able to provide written informed assent and consent, respectively.
• Willingness to strictly avoid pregnancy (using non-hormonal methods) during the time of study.