Authors:
Gwang Seong Choi, Sung Joo Lee. Department of Dermatology, Inha University, Inchon, Korea
Study Results:
Finasteride is an effective oral medication in the treatment of androgenetic alopecia (AGA). Minoxidil has a direct effect on hair growth by stimulating dermal papillae or follicular hair matrix cells. Simultaneous administration of topical minoxidil with tretinoin may enhance the response of AGA to minoxidil.
We treated 41 AGA patients from 23 to 43 years of age (grade III and VI, according to the Norwood-Hamilton classification scale) with combination therapy. The results were evaluated by patient self assessment and investigator assessment by comparision of clinical photography. Every 3 months, clinical evaluation and adverse events were assessed.
At month 12, of the 41 patient enrolled, Effective results, including excellent results and good results, were observed in 27 (65.9%) patients. Progressed hair loss compared to baseline were 2 (4.9%) patients. Adverse effects including sexual dysfunctions and skin irritation were observed in 2 (4.9%) and 6 (14.6%) patients, respectively. The results between self assessment and investigator assessment showed similarity.
The combination therapy of oral finasteride 1mg/day, topical 3% minoxidil, and 0.025% tretinoin improved AGA more efficiently comparing to monotherapy. We recommended combination therapy in those patients with AGA who desire medical therapy.
