Comparative study of efficacy of topical minoxidil versus topical minoxidil with finasteride in androgenetic alopecia

Abstract

<p><strong>Background:</strong> Minoxidil and finasteride are most common drugs used in androgenetic alopecia. The objective of the study was to know the efficacy of topical minoxidil solution with and without finasteride.</p><p><strong>Methods:</strong> In total about 30 subjects, aged 18-45 years, who came for outpatient consultation for male pattern androgenetic alopecia were randomized into two groups. Group A was treated with 0.1% topical finasteride and 5% minoxidil solution and Group B was treated with 5% minoxidil solution after taking informed consent from subjects of both groups.</p><p><strong>Results:</strong> Analysis of the extent of bald area, hair count and number of terminal hair showed better results in group A compared to group B.</p><p><strong>Conclusions: </strong>Better results were obtained with combination of topical minoxidil with finasteride than with plain topical minoxidil.</p>