What medication is used as an androgen suppressive but does not affect existing hair?

Spironolactone is an effective medication utilized for its androgen-suppressive properties, particularly in the treatment of conditions like hirsutism and hormonal acne. It works by blocking androgen receptors and lowering the levels of androgens in the body, which can lead to a reduction in hair growth associated with excessive androgen levels. Importantly, spironolactone does not affect existing hair that is already present; rather, it helps to manage the underlying hormonal issues that can lead to unwanted hair growth in the first place.

In contrast, other options listed serve very different purposes. Minoxidil is mainly known as a topical treatment for hair regrowth, particularly in conditions like androgenetic alopecia, and does not have a direct androgen-suppressive effect. Finasteride is also a medication that reduces androgen levels, specifically by blocking the conversion of testosterone to dihydrotestosterone (DHT), and is used primarily for hair loss in men; however, it can influence existing hair as it is aimed at stopping further hair loss and potentially aiding regrowth. Aspirin is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) and does not have any role in androgen suppression or hair growth.

Thus, spironolactone