Treatment of Androgenetic Alopecia in Women with Monotherapy Minoxidil Versus Minoxidil and Finasteride

Authors

Catrina T. Moore, University of LynchburgFollow

Specialty

Family Medicine

Advisor

Professor Thomas Colletti, DHSc, PA-C, DFAAPA

Abstract

ABSTRACT

Purpose: The purpose of this article is to review the current treatment for women with androgenic alopecia and present an additional therapy with current treatment and examine the additive effects of dual therapy versus monotherapy.

Method: An initial PubMed literature search was conducted with search terms androgenetic alopecia, women, Minoxidil, and Finasteride. Nineteen pertinent articles were retrieved and served as the basis for this clinical review. A second PubMed literature search was conducted with the search terms female to male transgender, androgenetic alopecia, and Finasteride. Two additional pertinent articles were retrieved and included in this clinical review

Results: Dual therapy Minoxidil combined with Finasteride is more efficacious in hair regrowth in women with androgenetic alopecia compared to Minoxidil alone.¹

Conclusion: Androgenetic Alopecia (AGA) is androgen dependent and hereditary; AGA is caused by dihydrotestosterone (DHT) on susceptible hair follicles bound to androgens in the follicle. Upregulation of genes occur in the terminal hair follicles and they are turned to miniaturized follicles.² The Federal Drug Administration (FDA) approved Minoxidil (MNX) to treat female AGA in 1991 and for the last two decades this is the only FDA approved medication to treat female AGA. Topical 2% and 5% MNX formulations are available without a prescription. Adding oral or topical Finasteride (FNS) to MNX will improve hair growth for women with AGA. Limited studies have been conducted on the combined effects of both medications and future research will further support the current independent studies of each medication.

Recommended Citation

Moore CT. Treatment of Androgenetic Alopecia in Women with Monotherapy Minoxidil Versus Minoxidil and Finasteride. University of Lynchburg DMSc Doctoral Project Assignment Repository. 2021; 4(1).