FINASTERIDE AND DUTASTERIDE IN THE TREATMENT OF ALOPECIA ANDROGENETICS: RISK OR BENEFIT?

Abstract

Androgenetic alopecia, commonly known as male pattern baldness or female pattern hair loss, is the most prevalent form of alopecia globally.
It results from an excessive response to androgens. Its chronic etiology is shaped by both genetic and environmental factors, making this condition particularly challenging to manage. The primary treatment involves the use of finasteride or dutasteride, which inhibit the 5-alpha-reductase enzyme. This enzyme is responsible for converting testosterone into dihydrotestosterone (DHT), thereby mitigating the progression of androgenetic alopecia. As these treatments have become more widespread, concerns have also emerged regarding their potential side effects, particularly their impact on sexual function and the possibility of psychological disorders in a subset of users. With the advent of new treatment methodologies for androgenetic alopecia, there is ongoing debate within the scientific community about the efficacy and safety of using finasteride and dutasteride. This article will explore how 5-alpha-reductase inhibitors are used to treat androgenetic alopecia, with a detailed examination of their risks and benefits.