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Published on: March 9, 2015
Relative safety and efficacy of finasteride for treatment of hirsutism
Kara A Townsend1, Karen F Marlowe
1Auburn University, Harrison School of Pharmacy, 1504 Springhill Avenue, Suite 1800, Mobile, AL 36604-3273, USA. townska@auburn.edu
Objective:
To evaluate the relative safety and efficacy of finasteride for treatment of hirsutism related to hyperandrogenism in women.
Data Sources:
Literature retrieval was accessed through MEDLINE (1966-March 2003) using the terms finasteride and hirsutism. Additional information was obtained from the drug manufacturer.
Data Synthesis:
Finasteride has been evaluated for treatment of hirsutism in multiple observational and randomized trials. Finasteride lowered hirsutism scores by 30-60% in most trials, as well as decreasing average hair diameter. In comparative trials, finasteride demonstrated efficacy similar to that of other antiandrogens, with fewer adverse effects.
Conclusions:
Finasteride does reduce the overall hair diameter and number in androgen-sensitive areas. Reported adverse effects have been minimal. Concern over potential teratogenicity and lack of long-term safety information leave finasteride a secondary treatment option for hirsutism.
