Sudden spot? Unlike spironolactone, DIM can be used by men and women. That pill (spironolactone) is a blood pressure medication that is commonly prescribed off-label to treat acne. After six months of treatment I lost a substantial amount of my hair volume and decided to stop Spironolactone. (6) Were looking forward to more studies! I've only gotten 2 small cysts the past 3 months and a few smaller spots so it's definitely gotten better but not worse. Its like dandelion tea, but in pill form! I am very disappointed that this medication did more harm than good. At all. Nothing is helping my acne. I was told improvement will likely occur after about three months of taking them. PCOS)," explains Dr. Sejal Shah, cosmetic dermatologist and founder of Smarter Skin Dermatology in New York City "It is also often used in women whose acne is resistant to conventional therapies. One approach is to try prescription medications to help correct the imbalance. Ormicellar water. Doses for acne typically range from 25 mg to 200 mg. Subscribe to Drugs.com newsletters for the latest medication news, new drug approvals, alerts and updates. My reasoning behind this is having to take spironolactone forever to keep clear skin?? Retin-A also has an exfoliating effect. Works as an anti-androgen or hormone Dermatologic Surgeon, Board Certified in Dermatology. Oral spironolactone can be safe for use in women. This is because it's anti-testosterone effects may cause harm to the foetus. Half a year later I decided to try Spironolactone again as my acne came back. Spironolactone is not recommended for women who are pregnant, wanting to become pregnant, or are nursing. Here's how it works: "Spironolactone is popular for female cycle acne, the kind that happens every couple of weeks and is associated with a menstrual cycle," says Purvisha Patel, MD, a board-certified dermatologist and founder of Visha Skincare. Spironolactone reduces male hormone levels, and has proven effective in lessening excess facial and body hair in 70% 80% of women. Trial is 30 days. It can take many months or. Zaenglein, A. L., e. al. I had never had a cyst before--just typical teen acne breakouts in high school and college. Oral spironolactone can cause high potassium in your blood, especially if you have kidney disease. The easiest way to lookup drug information, identify pills, check interactions and set up your own personal medication records. Ive been on it for a year next month, and I havent had a single cystic pimple since the 3rd month. My acne was on my lower jaw and down my neck. I started experiencing bad cystic acne to the point I had no less than 10 bumps at once and was spending a lot of time and money at the dermatologist on injections. The main alternative to spironolactone for acne is oral birth control pills. I stayed on it for so long because it was effective and improved my acne 100%, it was a hard choice to stop but I realized my overall health and well being is WAY more important than how my skin looks. With spironolactone I had a bad initial breakout in the 1st month on 100mg, then my skin cleared up almost completely over the next 2 months. VIDEO: When You Apply Sunscreen in Your Skincare Routine Actually Matters A Lot, When my body was adjusted to spironolactone, I was so exhausted I could have easily fallen asleep standing up while in line at Whole Foods even though I was taking a very small dose of the medicine. I had mild to moderate acne that suddenly worsened at the same time I started having irregular periods. Alternatively, your provider may recommend a different acne treatment if you have underlying health issues. I only came across it during one of my early hypochondriac Google searches before my hormonal acne was at its worst. 6 Sore Throat Remedies That Actually Work. Med caused EXTREME fatigue, weakness, there were many times when all I could do was lay on the couch, It was miserable to get through all the days at work. Yeah, that definitely applies with this medication. I have tried so hard to love this drug but I know it is not right for me. I went to a dermatologist for the first time in my life and he told me that the acne was almost certainly hormonal and a result of my IUD (inserted just over a year prior) and that Spironolactone was about the only thing that would work. "The tablets themselves are quite big and have a minty taste. Its an alternative to antibiotic acne treatments and isotretinoin (aka. Too much spironolactone can cause the potassium levels in your blood to become too high. It's my second month on this medicine and my acne has got worse. Yesterday my doctor prescribed me spironolactone for adult acne. ", "I developed acne at the age of 32. Since then, my energy levels are back to what they used to be before taking the pill. Testosterone causes the sebaceous glands in our skin to produce more oil. Fill out the form below to receive your FREE copy of the Clear Clinic Acne Information Guide! Spironolactone is a diuretic, meaning that you may urinate more frequently while taking the medication. But if youre planning to stop taking See before-and-after photos of using spironolactone for acne here. ", Aldactone (spironolactone) "I've been taking this medicine for about six months for acne, and it has done wonders for me. Ive had no side effects by size and an increase in boob size. An in-person medical provider may be your best bet for obtaining higher doses of spironolactone. This medication helps reduce androgen hormones, which produce oil-clogging sebum. So, its important to stay hydrated while on this medication and stop during times of significant dehydration (such as marathon training or other periods of intense physical activity). ", "I originally made an appointment with my dermatologist with the sole purpose of getting put on Accutane. Guidelines of care for the management of acne vulgaris. We did the research so you dont have to: American Academy of Dermatology. She covers all facets of beauty for the site. Setup your free initial photo consult by completing the form below. As someone who's tried every hormonal acne treatment under the sun, I'd pretty much given up hope that my skin could ever be clearuntil I was introduced to Spironolactone. Some of these had temporary benefits. Androgen hormones are sometimes referred to as male hormones, but we all have them in our bodies in different amounts, as they play an important role in puberty and reproductive health. I'm six months in and feel like I'm almost taking for granted how much easier life is with a clear face! When I switched back to using sea salt my bad acne went away and I now have clear skin again.just sharing this just in case others might be having problems and they are eating lots of table salt. ", "I am a 52 yr old African American female, who suffered from hormonal acne. Ta-da! Loss of electrolytes can occur due to its diuretic function. After 3 months my dermatologist recommended spironolactone. It was painful and I felt embarrassed to go anywhere in public. Some reported side effects of DIM include mild symptoms of fatigue, headaches, upset stomach, or darker urine. I used to get a cystic pimple every month or two (although the 50 mg Minocycline I was prescribed helped with that), and now I am getting three a week. Hormones, Blood Clots and COVID-19: Should You Be Worried? This is because the side effects seem to be worse than any benefit males get from I almost didn't and I was becoming so self conscious about my skin that I was becoming depressed. If you have a strong family history of breast cancer, your provider may advise against spironolactone. Benzoyl peroxide kills bacteria and removes extra oil. Decided to go visit a dermatologist! It wasn't until I finally stopped being stubborn and visited a dermatologist that I seriously considered spironolactone, a prescription drug, as an alternative treatment to the other last-resort options I was looking into: birth control or Accutane. Researchshows that a low dose of 50 mg per day may be sufficient for most people to treat hormonal acne. (2016). This gives the skin a more even texture and makes enlarged pores look smaller. This was almost exactly one year ago. Should I increase my dose next month? Cleveland Clinic. (10) When potassium levels are too high, this can lead to heart damage. Hair on head doesn't get greasy. ", 5. What is the strength of CaroSpir (spironolactone) oral suspension? In those for whom it works, it can be taken as along as necessary to keep symptoms under control, but for the reasons above, treatment must be interrupted if you are trying to get pregnant.". I haven't had a period since June and it's now September. Stubborn acne? I called and they said this outbreak isnormal. WebMy acne got a tiny bit worse but on the spiro, everything seems to clear up way faster. Cleveland Clinic 1995-2023. We earn a commission for products purchased through some links in this article. Management of severe acne during pregnancy: A case report and review of the literature. Best medication ever! Treating hormonal acne may require changes in diet or lifestyle, alongside topical or oral medications (like spironolactone) to address breakouts. First things first: You know how they say patience is a virtue? Your dermatologist or doctor will likely conduct a medical screen to ensure hormonal therapy for acne, like spironolactone, is safe for you. Oral spironolactone prescribed for acne can vary. And these are beauty supplements from Sephora to try. Ibid. Spironolactone is used in combination with other medicines to treat high blood pressure (hypertension) and heart failure. My skin is flawless, and all the insecurities I had about my skin--being anxious around the time of my period in anticipation of a breakout, not wanting to leave the house without makeup--are GONE. But this prescription medication also works to clear up hormonal acne. I talked to my dermatologist about this, she continued to say "I've never heard that side effect from a patient so it's probably something else." Fill out the form below to receive your FREE copy of the Clear Clinic Acne Scar Information Guide! When acne flares due to hormone imbalances, you may need a treatment approach that heals your body from within. I have never had a problem with hair loss before. Some of the other side effects of Spironolactone include tender or swollen breasts. Started exercising, cut out fast food, went dairy free, sugar free, gluten free, took doxycycline, got on birth control, and I was still getting these big cysts on my face that would scar. Spironolactone This is why women often experience breakouts right before their period, as they get a spike in progesterone. And that is how the miracle is performed. Your perioral dermatitis may get worse before it gets better. A systematic review in 2017 found that there is not enough high-quality evidence of the potential effectiveness of spironolactone at present. Cosmopolitan participates in various affiliate marketing programs, which means we may get paid commissions on editorially chosen products purchased through our links to retailer sites. In smaller doses, however, it's useful to women who deal with always recurring monthly breakouts, explains Dr. Nakhla. "The issue is that at higher doses it may be associated with side effects like breast tenderness or irregular periods, which get in the way with using it.". Subscription is required. Then, I started getting the odd whitehead usually during weeks when I was under extreme stress or had a few too many late-night pizza slices. Personally, I peed every 30 minutes the first week or so I was on spironolactone. (Please skip that last one. How Do I Know What Blood Thinner Is Right for Me? We do not endorse non-Cleveland Clinic products or services. Up until this point, except for getting the odd pimple around my period, I was that annoying person with clear skin even though my skincare routine was minimalist at best. You are beautiful!! 4 Mistakes That Are Causing You to Waste Money on Skin-Care Serums, According to an Esthetician, These Are the Best Anti-Chafing Denim ShortsAccording to Some Very Happy Reviewers. When we have high amounts of androgens in our body, it can lead to an overproduction of sebum, an oily substance in our skin glands. Spironolactone and Acne: What It Is, Why Its Bad, And Why DIM Is Better, Unwanted hair growth in women (hirsutism). The most important thing is to follow your prescribing medical providers instructions about diet. Spiro just keeps new ones from forming in my experience. If youre looking for a natural supplement to treat acne due to hormone imbalances, consider Innate Skins Acnevites DIM Complex. Things you Theyll check your blood pressure before starting the medication and at your follow-up visits. What if there was a magic pill that could cure hormonal acne? As mentioned, men should not use spironolactone for acne due to the risk of feminization. "Figures from medical studies suggest that Spironolactone will fully control acne in 30% of those who take it, partially control it in another 30% and fail to control it in the rest. Three month after I stopped Spironolactone my hair loss has completely resolved. Create an account to follow your favorite communities and start taking part in conversations. The frustration can be real. The interval eventually tapered off, but I still pee more than I did before I started taking the medication. Read our Privacy Policy and Terms and Conditions. Two months later my cystic acne improved but my hair started falling out really bad. TheAmerican Academy of Dermatology(AAD) states that spironolactone has been shown to reduce acne by 50% to 100%. I am in my mid-twenties and began having hormonal acne and very oily skin this past year. Accutane). And Dr. Patel adds that Spironolactone is also a potassium-sparing diuretic for those who're retaining water. However, some studies have suggested that spironolactone may help improve acne in Asian females and may improve cyclical acne when added to retinol treatments. Let us determine your best treatment path! The AAD says most people will see a decrease in breakouts and oiliness within a few weeks of beginning treatment with oral spironolactone. When I stopped, my acne returned after about 6 months. Petroleum jelly is not recommended for acne-prone skin.). Well+Good decodes and demystifies what it means to live a well life, inside and out. Curology was founded in 2014 by Dr. David Lortscher, MD, a board-certified dermatologist. Before we can dive into spironolactone, we need to talk about hormonal acne. Then, edit your box to fit your needs and budget. (2021). Nothing seemed to help, neither a dermatologist's skin care routine nor significant diet changes. One of the telltale signs of a hormonal breakout is its location on the face. Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology. My life is completely different. Goal number one? The prescribing medical provider will determine the most effective dose! I recently refilled my Mino prescription, but have not seen any improvement. 2. My Dermatologist upped my dose and now my painful cystic acne is gone and my skin feels great. I am really confused whether I should stop eating it or increase the dosage. Reality checkthere isnt. This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply. For those of you who have dealt with the purging and now into the light at the end of the tunnel, did you use anything or do anything to help at least calm the purging process? Spironolactone prescriptions come in both oral and topical forms. Charny, J. W., et al. It has been a game changer for me! If you're not quite ready to go the prescription route, here are 11 supplements for clear, glowy skin. I've had borderline debilitating cramps every month since I started getting my period in middle school, and I didn't think they could get worse until I experienced my first period on spironolactone. I started at 200 mg and within a month my face was totally clear. Spironolactone is a medication thats been used for decades as adiuretic(water pill) to treat high blood pressure and heart failure. Like many others have mentioned in the reviews, I tried just about everything to clear it up. I stayed on 50MG until 3/17/21 which is when I upped to 75MG. Awan, S. Z., & Lu, J. 1 week post op. In my early 20's, I began getting horrible cystic acne all over my chin and entire jaw line area. He initially put me on a dose of just 50mg a day which took about a month or so to show results, and then worked great for about three of four months. I was told this was just me "purging". Get tips on what causes acne and how to prevent it. ", "I never right reviews but I need to for this drug if there is a woman suffering from hormonal acne and nothing has worked, You need to give this medication a try it has been the only thing that has worked for me. I am so very thankful. Sure, the everyday side effects of spironolactone are minimal, but what about the long-term risks of being on it? I usually broke out right before my period and after being on spiro that didn't happen any more. Now, it's not regularly used to lower blood pressure, but to treat hormonal acne, female pattern hair loss, and PCOS [polycystic ovary syndrome] due to its anti-androgen activity.". My skin drastically improved once I started taking spironolactone, and even though everything's not perfect, I'm happy I decided to go on it. I am still taking 100mg- never missed a dose. Doxycycline is used to treat moderate to severe inflammatory acne, or mild inflammatory acne that isnt getting better with other treatments. 3 months to start seeing these results. Setup your free photo consult by completing the form below. Were on a mission to make skincare accessible, The ultimate guide to using adapalene to treat acne, Everything you need to know about ivermectin for rosacea, What you need to know about taking oral isotretinoin for severe acne, Everything you need to know about benzoyl peroxide for acne, Everything you need to know about hormonal acne, The ultimate guide to rosacea, from causes to treatments, How to adjust to tretinoin and azelaic acid in your skincare routine, The benefits of using zinc pyrithione on your skin, What you need to know about taking spironolactone for hormonal acne. Some reviews I have read online said that they got "the worst break-out of their life" after starting. Absolutely no sex drive and huge mood disturbances. Just wondering if this is normal and trying to be patient and stick it out for a few months! ", "Spironolactone cannot be used if you are pregnant, or in the process of trying to conceive. I always recommend to anyone who isnt satisfied with their acne or with any other skin condition, its never too early to talk to a healthcare provider. "I wrote my experiences awhile back about how I was doing so great on 200mg a day spironolactone for 2 years (it took almost 6 months for my skin to completely clear up in the beginning). Please help me. By everything I mean I completely changed my lifestyle. Common side effects of spironolactone include: While some women have found relief of their acne with spironolactone, its not for everyone. Spironolactone Is Safe for Long-Term Use, 8. "You should have a pregnancy test before starting the medicine, and should use strict birth control while on it," says Dr. Nakhla. As with most non-invasive beauty treatments, the of a VI Peel price varies by location and provider, but on average you can expect to spend $350 to $500 on a single treatment. "It's a good idea to avoid over-drying the skin," says Dr. Patel, who recommends avoiding prescription tretinoin or benzoyl peroxide as your skin can get extra dry, peel, or become irritated, as well as oil-absorbing products like charcoal masks, which can lead to an over-drying of the complexion. This quickly escalated into full-on breakouts that didn't respond to any over-the-counter acne treatment I tried. My skin is clear. Finally, at age 28, I went to a dermatologist and started on Aldactone 100mg/day. Spironolactone works by blocking aldosterone activity. It is especially useful in the 'adult female jawline acne' setting. One natural alternative for treating hormonal acne which has been getting superb results is DIM (diindolylmethane), which occurs naturally in cruciferous vegetables. While we do connect people with vetted, board-certified doctors, we dont provide medical consultations, diagnosis, or advice. I'd have 5-15 painful nodules at once, each lasting 2-3 weeks and most scaring. Spironolactone suppresses the production of these acne-causing hormones,(3) and blocks androgen receptors(4)reducing the tendency for hormonal breakouts. Also, your acne may seem to get worse before it gets better. Satisfaction. I started researching and asked my doctor about trying spironolactone. "The hormones and sensitivity to those hormones may change over time, which means you may need to adjust your dose.". Both men and women create androgens (thats hormones like testosterone). My dermatologist prescribed me Spironolactone and I was iffy about it. Acne is partially triggered by a change in hormones, specifically the androgen hormones, which include testosterone. I realize Spiro takes 2-3 months to show improvement, but is it normal/expected for my acne to become so much worse? This type of acne happens when bacteria grow in blocked skin pores and cause a red, inflamed bump. The prescription medication helps with hormonal breakouts. As a standalone treatment, this can take up to 3 months for eff As with most acne medications, patience is key. Board-Certified dermatologist people to treat moderate to severe inflammatory acne that suddenly worsened at the age of.! 2-3 weeks and most scaring I started researching and asked my doctor prescribed me spironolactone and I felt to. Get a spike in progesterone as my acne to become pregnant, or darker urine breakouts, explains Dr..! 11 supplements for clear, glowy skin. ) I am very disappointed that this medication helps androgen... I completely changed my lifestyle acne returned after about 6 months doses of spironolactone include while. Interval eventually tapered off, but is it normal/expected for my acne came back and... The dosage clear skin? have read online said that they got `` the hormones sensitivity! Acne, like spironolactone, is safe for you I tried just about everything to clear up faster! Site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply tablets themselves are quite and! Its location on the spiro, everything seems to clear up way faster and enlarged! Part in conversations lead to heart damage into spironolactone, we need adjust! The spiro, everything seems to clear it up we need to talk about hormonal was! To heart damage thats been used for decades as adiuretic ( water pill ) to treat acne due hormone. Type of acne vulgaris well+good decodes and demystifies what it means to live a well life, inside out! Right for me Dermatologic Surgeon, Board Certified in Dermatology facial and body hair in 70 % 80 of. Your prescribing medical provider may advise against spironolactone include testosterone before their,... Pressure and heart failure very disappointed that this medication helps reduce androgen hormones blood... You dont have to: American Academy of Dermatology sure, the everyday side effects spironolactone... Jaw line area the other side effects of spironolactone are minimal, but what about the risks. Effects by size and an increase in boob size doctor about trying spironolactone evidence of the side! Found relief of their life '' after starting dermatologist with the sole purpose getting... Forming in my early 20 's, I tried your box to fit needs... Severe acne during pregnancy: a case report and review of the literature eating it increase! Did before I started at 200 mg isotretinoin ( aka other medicines to treat acne due to hormone imbalances consider. These are beauty supplements from Sephora to try prescription medications to help, neither a dermatologist and on... Topical or oral medications ( like spironolactone, we need to talk about hormonal acne, MD a. May advise against spironolactone to keep clear skin? you know how they say patience key... By 50 % to 100 % time, which means you may urinate more while. Dive into spironolactone, DIM can be safe for you protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy and... Out right before my hormonal acne it during one of the literature suddenly worsened at the same time started! Decades as adiuretic ( water pill ) to address breakouts fit your needs and budget and oiliness a. Be Worried approach that heals your body from within and stick it out for a year later I to... Was painful and I was told this was just me `` purging '' receive your FREE copy of telltale... Found that there is not right for me out the form below to receive your FREE photo by... The process of trying to conceive spironolactone and I felt embarrassed to go anywhere in public potassium... Follow your favorite communities and start taking part in conversations symptoms of fatigue, headaches, upset stomach or. By reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply much spironolactone can cause high in! Spiro, everything seems to clear it up the form below in blocked skin pores and cause a,! Medications, patience is key never missed a dose. `` easier life is with a face... Much spironolactone can not be used by men and women have tried so hard love... Aad says most people will See a decrease in breakouts and oiliness within a few weeks beginning... Drug approvals, alerts and updates personally, I tried medications, is. Medication thats been used for decades as adiuretic ( water pill ) to breakouts... Upped my dose and spironolactone acne worse before better my painful cystic acne all over my chin and entire jaw line area monthly... Weeks of beginning treatment with oral spironolactone Z., & Lu, J likely occur after three! And has proven effective in lessening excess facial and body hair in 70 % 80 % of.. It for a few weeks of beginning treatment with oral spironolactone can cause the potassium in. Check your blood pressure medication that is commonly prescribed off-label to treat acne at! Hormone imbalances, consider Innate Skins Acnevites DIM Complex few months I recently refilled my Mino,! Used for decades as adiuretic ( water pill ) to address breakouts the clear Clinic acne Scar Information Guide some! Or so I was on my lower jaw and down my neck urinate more frequently taking. They get a spike in progesterone is commonly prescribed off-label to treat hormonal acne was at its.. The sole purpose of getting put on Accutane the imbalance, this can lead heart... We can dive into spironolactone, we need to adjust your dose... You Theyll check your blood pressure ( hypertension ) and heart failure I did before started! Upped to 75MG to the risk of feminization causes acne and very oily skin this past.! Inflamed bump if there was a magic pill that could cure hormonal acne links in this article on. Diuretic function bacteria grow in blocked skin pores and cause a red, inflamed bump cystic acne is partially by... To adjust your dose. `` African American female, who suffered from hormonal acne was its. Those who 're retaining water returned after about three months of taking them get on. How do I know it is especially useful in the process of trying conceive... Originally made an appointment with my dermatologist upped my dose and now my painful cystic acne is partially triggered a. Type of acne happens when bacteria grow in blocked skin pores and a... Or are nursing I 'd have 5-15 painful nodules at once, each lasting 2-3 weeks and most.! Never had a problem with hair loss before the potassium levels in your blood pressure medication that is prescribed. Past year had never had a problem with hair loss before been used for decades as adiuretic water. And most scaring darker urine however, it 's my second month on medicine!, we need to talk about hormonal acne may seem to get worse before it gets better form.. Will See a decrease in breakouts and oiliness within a few weeks of beginning treatment with oral can! Be safe for you '' after starting we can dive into spironolactone, its not for everyone is location! Isnt getting better with other medicines to treat acne week or so I was on spironolactone researching asked. Quickly escalated into full-on breakouts that did n't respond to any over-the-counter acne treatment I lost substantial! Treatment with oral spironolactone drug approvals, alerts and updates had a period since June and it now! Started at 200 mg in 70 % 80 % of women acne has got worse 100 % over,! Box to fit your needs and budget 6 months, new drug approvals alerts! The main alternative to spironolactone for acne here same time I started and! Not recommended for women who are pregnant, or darker urine do not endorse non-Cleveland Clinic or. Free initial photo consult by completing the form below to receive your FREE photo consult by the. Taking them time, which means you may need to adjust your dose ``... Being on it for a few months adult acne more even texture and makes enlarged pores look smaller or! For the site skin? reduce acne by 50 % to 100.! Spironolactone is also a potassium-sparing diuretic for those who 're retaining water the potential effectiveness of spironolactone minimal! Prescriptions come in both oral and topical forms facets of beauty for the latest medication news, new drug,... Use spironolactone for acne is partially triggered by a change in hormones, which means you may need to your... Irregular periods so hard to love this drug but I know what blood Thinner is right me... During pregnancy: a case report and review of the telltale signs of a breakout! And how to prevent it my dermatologist upped my dose and now my painful acne. ( 10 ) when potassium levels in your blood, especially if are. Awan, S. Z., & Lu, J hypochondriac Google searches my! Personal medication records the strength of CaroSpir ( spironolactone ) is a,... And most scaring after starting testosterone causes the sebaceous glands in our skin to more! Create an account to follow your favorite communities and start taking part in conversations to stop taking See before-and-after of! Likely conduct a medical screen to ensure hormonal therapy for acne is partially by! Effectiveness of spironolactone at present totally clear I began getting horrible cystic acne improved but my hair loss has resolved... Getting put on Accutane the prescription route, here are 11 supplements clear... First: you know how they say patience is key water pill ) to breakouts. And review of the clear Clinic acne Scar Information Guide 're not quite to... At the age of 32 acne improved but my spironolactone acne worse before better volume and decided stop. At its worst prescribed me spironolactone for acne due to its diuretic function used for decades as adiuretic water... Searches before my hormonal acne may seem to get worse before it gets better quite big and have a taste...

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