The Over-The-Counter Finasteride Alternative: A Critical Review of Saw Palmetto's Efficacy, Safety, and Regulatory Concerns

    August 2025 in “ International Journal of Dermatology ”
    Kevin T. Nguyen, Kritin K. Verma, Ethan Matthew … Michelle Tarbox
    Studysummary This study reports that although saw palmetto extract is marketed as a natural alternative for hair loss and prostate health, its unregulated status may pose safety and efficacy risks to consumers.
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    Research cited in this study 3

    1. Serenoa Repens Induced Erectile Dysfunction: Underdiagnosis and Phytovigilance British Journal of Clinical Pharmacology · 2021
    2. Natural Hair Supplement: Friend or Foe? Saw Palmetto, A Systematic Review in Alopecia Skin appendage disorders · 2020
    3. Comparative Effectiveness of Finasteride vs Serenoa Repens in Male Androgenetic Alopecia: A Two-Year Study International Journal of Immunopathology and Pharmacology · 2012

    Related research 1

    1. Use of Finasteride in the Treatment of Men With Androgenetic Alopecia Journal of Investigative Dermatology Symposium Proceedings · 2003