TLDR Metformin reduces certain hormone levels in men with early-onset hair loss.
The study investigated the effects of metformin on pituitary hormone production in young men with early-onset androgenic alopecia (group 1, n=23) compared to those with normal hair growth (group 2, n=25), all with prediabetes. Over 6 months of metformin treatment, group 1 showed a reduction in luteinizing hormone (LH) levels and the LH/follicle-stimulating hormone ratio, while group 2 experienced more pronounced improvements in fasting glucose, insulin sensitivity, and glycated hemoglobin. Metformin did not affect other hormone levels in either group. In untreated men with androgenic alopecia (group 3, n=22), glucose homeostasis markers and hormone levels remained stable. The findings suggest that metformin has a stronger impact on gonadotroph secretory function in men with early-onset androgenic alopecia, potentially protecting against gonadotroph hyperplasia and/or focal testicular changes.
4 citations,
December 2021 in “Pharmacological Reports” Metformin is less effective in men with early-onset hair loss.
30 citations,
September 2017 in “Clinics in Dermatology” Men with common hair loss may have a higher risk of heart disease and diabetes, and should be checked for these conditions.
14 citations,
September 2017 in “Clinics in Dermatology” Skin diseases linked to insulin resistance should be managed to prevent diabetes and reduce heart disease risk.
28 citations,
July 2017 in “Journal of Endocrinological Investigation” Early onset baldness in men may indicate a condition similar to PCOS, linked to heart disease, diabetes, and prostate issues.
8 citations,
April 2017 in “Medical Hypotheses” Men with early balding may have hormonal imbalances similar to women with PCOS and could benefit from similar treatments.
153 citations,
March 2017 in “Endocrine” Male pattern baldness involves genetics, hormones, and needs better treatments.
47 citations,
June 2016 in “JAMA Dermatology” Men with early hair loss have similar hormone levels to women with PCOS, possibly increasing risk of obesity and heart issues.
32 citations,
January 1990 in “Clinical Endocrinology” Women with female pattern hair loss have higher levels of certain androgens, suggesting increased androgen exposure to hair follicles.
