Comparative Efficacy of Minoxidil and 5-Alpha Reductase Inhibitors Monotherapy for Male Pattern Hair Loss: Network Meta-Analysis Study of Current Empirical Evidence

    Aditya K. Gupta, Mary A. Bamimore, Greg Williams, Mesbah Talukder
    Image of study
    TLDR Dutasteride 0.5 mg/day is the most effective treatment for male pattern hair loss.
    This network meta-analysis evaluated 33 studies to compare the efficacy of minoxidil, finasteride, and dutasteride for male pattern hair loss. Oral dutasteride 0.5 mg/day was identified as the most effective treatment, significantly reducing serum dihydrotestosterone by 92%, compared to finasteride's 73%. While minoxidil in various forms showed comparable efficacy, oral minoxidil 5 mg/day was particularly effective in vertex-area photographic analysis but carries a higher risk of systemic adverse effects. Among FDA-approved treatments, topical minoxidil 5% is the most effective topical agent, and oral finasteride 1 mg/day is the most effective oral option. The study highlights the superior efficacy of dutasteride and the need for careful prescription and monitoring due to potential side effects.
    Discuss this study in the Community →

    Research cited in this study

    36 / 36 results

    Related Community Posts Join

    6 / 1000+ results

    Related Research

    4 / 4 results