Diagnostic Approach and Management of Androgenetic Alopecia

April 2022 in “ Medicinus ”

Ardhiah Iswanda Putri, M. Yulianto Listiawan

androgenetic alopecia hair loss hair regrowth AGA family history medications side effects treatment regimens adherence to treatment

TLDR Effective treatments for common hair loss are limited and may have side effects, leading to patient disappointment and treatment discontinuation.

Androgenetic alopecia (AGA) is the most common type of hair loss in both men and women, characterized by a progressive reduction in hair length, diameter, and pigmentation. Early signs of AGA can begin in adolescence, with family history being a common predisposing factor. AGA can significantly affect physical appearance and self-image, leading to a substantial decrease in quality of life and a drive to seek effective hair treatments to prevent further hair loss and stimulate optimal hair regrowth. However, approved medications for AGA treatment are limited, can have side effects, and do not always yield satisfactory results. The limited efficacy of treatment regimens, poor tolerance, and lack of information about treatment duration and potential side effects can affect adherence to treatment, leading to disappointment due to unmet expectations and early discontinuation of medication. Comprehensive management and good education are necessary to achieve optimal outcomes in AGA cases.

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Research cited in this study

14 / 14 results

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Men with early-onset hair loss have more heart disease risk factors.

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Use minoxidil for hair loss treatment; assess results after 6 months.

research The Combination of Overweight and Smoking Increases the Severity of Androgenetic Alopecia

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Overweight smokers have worse hair loss.

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110 citations, August 2016 in “Drugs”

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research The Growth of Human Scalp Hair in Females Using Visible Red Light Laser and LED Sources

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Red light therapy is safe and effectively increases hair growth in women with hair loss.

The Efficacy and Safety of 5α-Reductase Inhibitors in Androgenetic Alopecia: A Network Meta-Analysis and Benefit–Risk Assessment of Finasteride and Dutasteride

research The Efficacy and Safety of 5α-Reductase Inhibitors in Androgenetic Alopecia: A Network Meta-Analysis and Benefit–Risk Assessment of Finasteride and Dutasteride

66 citations, June 2013 in “Journal of Dermatological Treatment”

Finasteride and dutasteride effectively treat hair loss, but may cause side effects like sexual dysfunction and depression.

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Minoxidil and finasteride effectively treat hair loss.

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Finasteride helps hair growth but may cause sexual side effects.

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Finasteride safely and effectively treats male pattern hair loss, but may cause reversible sexual issues and harm male fetuses.

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