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

June 2013 in “ Journal of Dermatological Treatment ”

Anik Gupta, Andrew Charrette

5α-reductase inhibitors androgenetic alopecia finasteride dutasteride sexual dysfunction depression AGA Propecia Avodart

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

This study evaluated the efficacy and safety of 5α-reductase inhibitors for the treatment of androgenetic alopecia (AGA). The study found that both finasteride and dutasteride were effective in treating hair loss, with dutasteride showing slightly better results. However, there were also potential side effects, including sexual dysfunction and depression, which were more common with finasteride. The study recommends that patients and physicians carefully weigh the benefits and risks of these drugs before deciding on a treatment plan.

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Research cited in this study

21 / 21 results

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The Importance of Dual 5α-Reductase Inhibition in the Treatment of Male Pattern Hair Loss: Results of a Randomized Placebo-Controlled Study of Dutasteride Versus Finasteride

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Faculty Opinions Recommendation of a Randomized, Active- and Placebo-Controlled Study of the Efficacy and Safety of Different Doses of Dutasteride Versus Placebo and Finasteride in the Treatment of Male Subjects With Androgenetic Alopecia

research Faculty Opinions Recommendation of a Randomized, Active- and Placebo-Controlled Study of the Efficacy and Safety of Different Doses of Dutasteride Versus Placebo and Finasteride in the Treatment of Male Subjects With Androgenetic Alopecia

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Dutasteride 0.5mg was found to be more effective than finasteride 1mg in treating male pattern hair loss, with similar side effects.

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Adverse Side Effects of 5α-Reductase Inhibitors Therapy: Persistent Diminished Libido, Erectile Dysfunction, and Depression in a Subset of Patients

research Adverse Side Effects of 5α-Reductase Inhibitors Therapy: Persistent Diminished Libido, Erectile Dysfunction, and Depression in a Subset of Patients

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