Male Pattern Baldness: Current Treatments, Future Prospects

July 2008 in “ Drug Discovery Today ”

Justine A. Ellis, Rodney Sinclair

male pattern baldness androgens genetics androgen receptor gene minoxidil finasteride DHT dutasteride latanoprost MPB Rogaine Propecia

From the encyclopedia

Minoxidil →

An essential vasodilator with some anti-androgenic effects

Finasteride →

Frontline, gold standard treatment for combatting androgenic alopecia

Dutasteride →

Heavy duty finasteride that comes with higher risks

Studysummary This review addresses the limited efficacy of current treatments for male pattern baldness and explains that emerging genetic insights could lead to more effective future therapies.

Our plain-language summary. Not medical advice or a treatment recommendation. Consult a qualified healthcare professional before changing treatment. Full disclaimer

In 2008, male pattern baldness (MPB) was a common condition affecting up to 50% of Caucasian men by middle age, with significant psycho-social impacts. The pathophysiology involved changes in the hair follicle cycle, and the etiology was linked to androgens and genetics, particularly the androgen receptor (AR) gene. Treatments at the time included minoxidil, which was effective in about half of the men for halting hair loss and inducing regrowth in a smaller percentage, and finasteride, which reduced scalp DHT concentrations and halted hair loss in many men, with some experiencing regrowth. However, both treatments had limitations, including side effects and the resumption of balding upon cessation. New treatments like dutasteride and latanoprost were in development, and there was a need for a better understanding of MPB's molecular mechanisms to develop more effective, targeted treatments.

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