Finasteride and Dutasteride in the Treatment of Androgenetic Alopecia: Risk or Benefit?

Abstract

Androgenetic alopecia, also known as male pattern hair loss or female pattern hair loss, is the most common form of alopecia worldwide and occurs due to an excessive response to androgens. Its etiology is chronic and influenced by genetic and environmental factors. For these reasons, this condition can be extremely difficult to treat. The main form of treatment currently involves the use of finasteride or dutasteride, which have the ability to inhibit the enzyme 5-alpha-reductase, responsible for the conversion of testosterone into DHT, and consequently prevent the progression of androgenetic alopecia. Concurrently with the dissemination of this treatment, various concerns have arisen regarding the potential side effects caused by this class of medication, particularly impairments in sexual function and possible psychological disorders observed in a portion of users. With the emergence of new methodologies aiming at the treatment of androgenetic alopecia, there is much debate in the scientific community about whether the use of finasteride and dutasteride is the best way to treat this condition. In this article, we will discuss how 5-alpha-reductase inhibitors act in the treatment of androgenetic alopecia, focusing on their risks and benefits.