TLDR Finasteride and minoxidil are the main effective treatments for hair loss from androgenetic alopecia.
In 2009, the primary treatments for androgenetic alopecia (AGA) were finasteride and minoxidil, both of which had proven efficacy and safety. Finasteride, an oral medication, was shown to significantly reduce scalp and serum DHT levels, improving hair growth by inhibiting the enzyme 5α-reductase type II. Minoxidil, a topical stimulant originally used for blood pressure control, was effective in increasing hair count, although its exact mechanism was unclear. Other treatments like dutasteride and various topical agents were also mentioned, but the document highlighted the necessity for evidence-based information to counteract unsubstantiated market claims. The Japanese Dermatological Association was preparing AGA treatment guidelines, set to be released in 2009.
397 citations,
February 2004 in “British Journal of Dermatology” Minoxidil boosts hair growth by opening potassium channels and increasing cell activity.
80 citations,
August 2002 in “Journal of Dermatology” Best hair growth results from combining finasteride and minoxidil.
25 citations,
January 2002 in “Folia Pharmacologica Japonica” Minoxidil helps hair grow by improving blood flow and increasing growth factors in hair follicles.
239 citations,
November 2000 in “Journal of The American Academy of Dermatology” Finasteride doesn't effectively treat hair loss in postmenopausal women.
581 citations,
October 1998 in “Journal of The American Academy of Dermatology” Finasteride safely and effectively treats male pattern hair loss, but may cause reversible sexual issues and harm male fetuses.
67 citations,
February 1997 in “Teratology” Finasteride, when given in high oral doses to pregnant monkeys, caused genital abnormalities in male fetuses, but not in female fetuses or those exposed to intravenous finasteride.
8 citations,
January 1989 in “Journal of Dermatological Treatment” This text talks about how to treat hair loss in women. It suggests different options and stresses the importance of support.
