TLDR The article concludes that dermatologists should prescribe lifestyle drugs carefully and consider mental health treatments for patients with disorders like BDD.
In 2007, the article highlighted the rise in the use of lifestyle drugs in dermatology, which are used by individuals to enhance appearance and quality of life rather than for medical diseases. These drugs, including finasteride for androgenic alopecia and botulinum toxin for cosmetic purposes, can be misused by patients with somatoform disorders such as body dysmorphic disorder (BDD), leading to chronic emotional disorders. The document stresses the importance of accurate diagnosis and the potential side effects and misuse of these drugs. It also notes the psychosocial implications and the increase in consultations for somatoform disorders following the introduction of drugs like finasteride. The paper concludes that dermatologists should be cautious with prescribing lifestyle drugs and consider psychotherapy or psychopharmacological treatment, as studies have shown the effectiveness of treatments like cognitive behavioral therapy and fluoxetine for BDD.
215 citations
,
November 2006 in “Journal of The American Academy of Dermatology” Dutasteride more effective for hair growth, but has more side effects than finasteride.
62 citations
,
April 2004 in “Expert Opinion on Pharmacotherapy” Finasteride effectively treats male pattern baldness, improving hair growth and density.
46 citations
,
September 2003 in “International Journal of Dermatology” Trichodynia found in 29% of TE or AGA patients, linked to psychological conditions.
35 citations
,
May 2002 in “Journal of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology” Chronic pelvic pain in men is common, but its cause is unknown and treatments are often ineffective.
56 citations
,
July 2001 in “International Journal of Clinical Pharmacology and Therapeutics” People obsessed with looking young may need therapy to address deeper issues.
192 citations
,
June 1992 in “Journal of The American Academy of Dermatology” Hair loss can cause low self-esteem, anxiety, and depression in men.
1 citations
,
November 2008 in “Gerontology” Older adults use lifestyle drugs to improve life quality and appearance, but caution is needed due to side effects and potential abuse.
145 citations
,
November 2017 in “Journal of The European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology” Use minoxidil for hair loss treatment; assess results after 6 months.
3 citations
,
December 2022 in “Cells” Cannabinoids like CBD and THC may help treat non-cancer skin diseases, but more research is needed.
There are many treatments for common hair loss, but more trials are needed to decide which are best.
