49 citations,
September 2012 in “The Journal of clinical endocrinology and metabolism/Journal of clinical endocrinology & metabolism” The document concludes with guidance for doctors on diagnosing and treating hirsutism effectively and safely.
218 citations,
December 2011 in “Advances in Urology” The document concludes that the 5 alpha-reductase enzymes are important in steroid metabolism and related to various human diseases, with inhibitors used to treat conditions like male pattern baldness and prostate issues.
26 citations,
November 2011 in “Arquivos Brasileiros De Endocrinologia E Metabologia” Diagnosing PCOS in teenagers should focus on signs of excess male hormones and not rely solely on ovarian ultrasound or irregular periods, and should be reassessed in adulthood.
22 citations,
August 2011 in “Endocrine Practice” Most hirsutism cases are due to PCOS, and treatment focuses on lowering testosterone and blocking its effects.
24 citations,
January 2010 in “Annales d'endocrinologie” For women with moderate to severe unwanted hair growth or acne, birth control pills are the first choice, with other medications like cyproterone, spironolactone, flutamide, or finasteride as alternatives, and permanent hair removal should be done with electrolysis or laser.
29 citations,
September 2004 in “Fertility and Sterility” Intermittent low-dose finasteride works as well as daily use for treating excessive hair growth in women.
4809 citations,
January 2004 in “Fertility and Sterility” The 2003 consensus updated PCOS diagnosis criteria and highlighted increased risks of diabetes and heart disease for those affected.
195 citations,
May 2003 in “Obstetrics and gynecology (New York. 1953. Online)/Obstetrics and gynecology” Most women with excess hair growth have an underlying hormonal issue, often treated with medication and hair removal methods.
56 citations,
April 2003 in “Fertility and Sterility” All three treatments reduce hirsutism, but spironolactone works best long-term.
7 citations,
February 2003 in “Gynecological Endocrinology” 
51 citations,
October 2002 in “European journal of endocrinology” Low-dose finasteride effectively treats hirsutism, is safe, and cost-effective.
50 citations,
April 2000 in “Fertility and Sterility” Diane 35 plus finasteride is more effective in reducing hair growth and androgen levels, but may decrease libido.
55 citations,
March 2000 in “American journal of clinical dermatology” Antiandrogens, particularly flutamide and CPA, are most effective for treating hirsutism, with long-term use needed for best results.
113 citations,
April 1999 in “The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism” Cyproterone acetate-estrogen most effective for hirsutism, but consider side effects and patient needs.
75 citations,
March 1999 in “Fertility and sterility” Finasteride, CPA, and flutamide are all equally effective in reducing excessive hair growth in women.
27 citations,
November 1998 in “Journal of Endocrinological Investigation” Finasteride significantly reduces hair growth in women with idiopathic hirsutism.
75 citations,
November 1996 in “Fertility and Sterility” Finasteride effectively reduces hair growth in women with idiopathic hirsutism, but requires careful contraception during treatment.
93 citations,
January 1996 in “Clinical Pharmacokinectics” Finasteride helps regrow hair and shrink prostate by reducing DHT, with some sexual side effects.
187 citations,
January 1994 in “The New England Journal of Medicine” Finasteride treats enlarged prostate and may help with baldness, but effects on sexual function and male fetuses are unclear.
147 citations,
April 1990 in “The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism” Finasteride safely lowers DHT levels without affecting testosterone.
