Comparative Efficacy of Topical Finasteride (0.25%) in Combination With Minoxidil (5%) Against 5% Minoxidil or 0.25% Finasteride Alone in Male Androgenetic Alopecia: A Pilot, Randomized Open-Label Study

The study involved 60 male patients with androgenetic alopecia (AGA) and compared the efficacy of three treatments: 5% minoxidil solution, 0.25% finasteride solution, and a combination of both. The results showed that the combination of 5% minoxidil and 0.25% finasteride was more effective in improving total hair density and terminal hair count than either treatment alone, with sustained improvement over 24 weeks. Side effects were reported in the combination and minoxidil groups, but none in the finasteride group. No systemic side effects were reported. Younger age, shorter disease duration, and early AGA grade were associated with better treatment response. The study was limited by its small sample size, lack of placebo group, and lack of long-term data. The authors recommend larger studies for long-term efficacy and safety of 0.25% finasteride.