A Canadian Consensus on Androgenetic Alopecia: Approach and Management

The Canadian consensus on androgenetic alopecia (AGA) provides guidance for managing this common hereditary hair loss condition, affecting 40%-50% of Canadians by age 50. An expert panel of 11 physicians reviewed 45 interventions, recommending seven, including oral and topical finasteride, oral dutasteride, topical minoxidil, platelet-rich plasma, microneedling, and oral minoxidil. The consensus offers treatment algorithms for both males and females, with first-line treatments like 5% minoxidil foam and oral finasteride for males, and 5% minoxidil topical for females. It emphasizes understanding treatment mechanisms to optimize combination therapies and highlights the need for more evidence and expert-based recommendations, especially given the limited approved medications in Canada. The consensus also addresses procedural treatments and adjunctive options, aiming to provide flexible treatment strategies while acknowledging the need for further research.