Pharmacotherapy for Androgenetic Alopecia in Men
March 2013
in “
DOAJ (DOAJ: Directory of Open Access Journals)
”
TLDR Minoxidil and finasteride are effective long-term treatments for male hair loss.
The 2013 study "PHARMACOTHERAPY ALOPECIA ANDROGENETIC IN MEN" discussed androgenetic alopecia, a condition causing hair thinning due to the stimulation of hair follicles by androgens. The condition, more prevalent in men due to higher levels of 5α-reductase, can cause both physical and psychological effects, including loss of hair's protective function and impacts on self-esteem. The study noted that androgenetic alopecia in men is influenced by the androgen dihydrotestosterone and genetic predisposition, but the exact physiology remains unclear. The study highlighted the use of pharmacotherapy, hair transplants, and cosmetic approaches in managing the condition. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) had approved two main drugs, minoxidil and finasteride, as safe and effective long-term treatments for men with androgenetic alopecia. Despite different mechanisms of action and administration routes, both drugs showed similar effectiveness in halting the progression of the condition.