Finasteride in the treatment of men with frontal male pattern hair loss

Background: Finasteride, a specific inhibitor of type TI Sa-reductase, decreases serum. and scalp dihydrotestosterone and has been shown to be effective in men with vertex male pattern hair loss. Objective: This study evaluated the efficacy of finasteride 1 mg/day in men with frontal (anterior/mid) scalp hair thinning. Methods: This was a 1-year, double-blind, placebo-controlled study followed by a 1-year open extension. Efficacy was assessed by hair counts (1 cm(2) circular area), patient and investigator assessments, and global photographic review. Results: There was a significant increase in hair count in the frontal scalp of finasteride-treated patients (P <.001), as well as significant improvements in patient, investigator, and global photographic assessments. Efficacy was maintained or improved throughout the second year of the study. Finasteride was generally well tolerated. Conclusion: Tn men with hair loss in the anterior/mid area of the scalp, finasteride 1 mg/day slowed hair loss and increased hair growth.