Abstract:
Background: Male Androgenetic alopecia (AGA) is a common condition of adult men. Oral Finasteride, a highly selective type 2.5 Alpha reductase inhibitor that decreases the formation of dihydrotestosterone from testosterone can restore hair loss in many patients. However, adverse events related to sexual function, have been reported. Objective: The purpose to this study was to determine the efficacy of topical Finasteride in growing the hair in men with AGA. Methods: In 6 month trial, 50 men from 18 to 60 years of age with moderate to severe male-pattern hair loss on vertex of scalp received 0.5% topical Finasteride or placebo twice per day based on random assignment. Efficacy was determined by scalp hair counts and assessment of clinical photographs. Safety was assessed by clinical and laboratory measurements. Result: Topical Finasteride treatment increased scalp hair count at 6 months (P<0.01, VS Placebo) and net increase in hair count at 6 months was 81 hairs/ 1 inch diameter cycle (placebo = -7 hairs). The assessment by global photographs at 6 months showed approximately 46% global increase of hair after treatment with topical Finasteride. No subjects reported sexual dysfunction and serum drug levels were minimal. Conclusion : In the men with male Androgenetic alopecia, 0.5% topical Finasteride increased hair growth and improved appearance of hair in clinical trail over 6 months.