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

Background: Finasteride, a specific inhibitor of type TI Sa-reductase, decr eases serum. and scalp dihydrotestosterone and has been shown to be effecti ve 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-yea r, double-blind, placebo-controlled study followed by a 1-year open extensi on. Efficacy was assessed by hair counts (1 cm(2) circular area), patient a nd investigator assessments, and global photographic review. Results: There was a significant increase in hair count in the frontal scal p of finasteride-treated patients (P <.001), as well as significant improve ments in patient, investigator, and global photographic assessments. Effica cy was maintained or improved throughout the second year of the study. Fina steride was generally well tolerated. Conclusion: Tn men with hair loss in the anterior/mid area of the scalp, fi nasteride 1 mg/day slowed hair loss and increased hair growth.