Medical Treatment of Male Pattern Alopecia (Androgenic Alopecia)

In 1985, the document reviewed the treatment options for androgenic alopecia (AGA), emphasizing the importance of ruling out androgen overproduction in women and considering a trial of topical progesterone at 2%-5% concentration, despite its limited effectiveness. It explained the hair growth cycle changes in AGA, primarily due to dihydrotestosterone's role. While systemic treatments with estrogens and other hormones were not consistently effective, topical progesterone showed some promise in reducing hair loss. Minoxidil, known to induce hair growth when taken orally, was undergoing clinical trials for a topical application and was seen as the most promising treatment, though results varied and further research was needed to confirm its efficacy and safety.