Finasteride Treatment of Hair Loss in Women

May 2010 in “ Annals of Pharmacotherapy ”

Stephen C. Stout, Janice L. Stumpf

finasteride hair loss topical minoxidil spironolactone flutamide topical estradiol decreased libido breast swelling breast tenderness Propecia Rogaine

TLDR Finasteride may help some women with hair loss, but better options exist.

This document reviews the use of finasteride for treating hair loss in women. While some studies have shown positive results, larger controlled trials have not demonstrated significant improvement in hair loss. Finasteride may be considered as a second-line option for women who do not respond to or tolerate topical minoxidil, but other potential second-line options include spironolactone, flutamide, and topical estradiol. Few adverse reactions have been reported in women receiving finasteride, but decreased libido and breast swelling and tenderness are possible side effects. Prior to initiating any drug therapy for hair loss, other potential causes of hair loss should be excluded.

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Research cited in this study

22 / 22 results

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The study found that Frontal Fibrosing Alopecia affects a broader age range of women and early treatment can help stop hair loss.

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Oral antiandrogens effectively treat female hair loss, with better results in higher hair loss grades.

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Finasteride can slow hair loss and promote growth in postmenopausal women.

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