Oral Finasteride Research Articles

A Prospective and Comparative Study to Explore the Effects of Platelet-Rich Plasma in Hair Transplantation for Patients With Androgenetic Alopecia.

Androgenetic alopecia (AGA) is the most prevalent type of hair loss. Traditionally, treatment for AGA has primarily involved the topical application of minoxidil in conjunction with oral finasteride or spironolactone. Recently, platelet-rich plasma (PRP) has emerged as a significant focus of research in hair loss treatment. However, many studies on PRP-assisted hair transplantation have encountered various limitations. This study aims to conduct a prospective, comparative clinical investigation to evaluate the therapeutic effects of combining PRP with minoxidil and finasteride/spironolactone as adjuncts to hair transplantation. From August 2019 to December 2022, we enrolled 30 patients with AGA in the study, randomly assigning them to an experimental group and a control group. The experimental group received drug therapy alongside hair transplantation and underwent PRP injections, whereas the control group received only drug therapy to assist with hair transplantation. Prior to surgery, no significant differences in baseline data were observed between the two groups. Following treatment, the experimental group demonstrated significantly improved follicle survival rates, follicle growth rates, and hair strength compared with the control group. This prospective, comparative clinical study demonstrated that the application of PRP in conjunction with pharmacological support during FUE treatment for AGA resulted in improved follicle survival rates, hair growth rates, and hair strength.

8679 Case: The Sexual, Physical and Psychological Effects of Post-Finasteride Syndrome

Abstract Disclosure: E.M. Lonergan: None. S.M. Maher: None. I. Yaseen: None. D.B. O'Shea: None. Post-finasteride syndrome (PFS) is an increasingly recognised disorder with a myriad of physical and neuropsychiatric symptoms persisting for greater than three months in a small proportion of patients treated with Finasteride. We present the case of a 45-year-old male who was taking oral Finasteride for hair loss. He first presented to endocrinology services having stopped Finasteride after twenty years reporting new onset reduced libido, penile shrinkage, fatigue, new food intolerances and agitated depression which was the predominant symptom in this case. He described the emergence of gynaecomastia, which was evident on examination, as well as muscle atrophy. Biochemistry was unremarkable including testosterone 24.6 nmol/L (8.6-29.0), oestradiol 100 pmol/L (50 – 159), LH 7.1 IU/L (1.7-8.6), FSH 16.8 IU/L (1.5-12.4), urinary free cortisol 177 nmol/24h (12-486) and urinary steroid profile. The patient was offered a trial of IM testosterone for 3 months followed by a course of hCG which he declined after discussing with patients online via a PFS patient forum citing anecdotal pseudo immune downregulation in this cohort. GLP-1 receptor agonist therapy was considered as a second-line treatment option. The patient expressed a preference for hydrocortisone treatment after conducting online research which has not been commenced due to a lack of evidence. The inhibition of 5-alpha-reductase in Finasteride-treated patients has been documented to cause reversible sexual dysfunction. However, with increasing case reports of PFS, it was included in the list of Rare and Genetic Diseases of the NIH in 2015. The syndrome encompasses symptoms and signs seen in our case, as well as erectile dysfunction, decreased ejaculatory volume, infertility, Peyronie’s disease, testicular pain, dry skin, memory problems and insomnia. Suicidal ideation was included in the product label as per FDA mandate in 2022. The literature is largely inconclusive regarding the underlying aetiology, duration, and severity of the disorder. A large retrospective study revealed 0.8% of patients developed sexual dysfunction with persistence in 33% of these cases after drug suspension, the main independent risk factor being drug treatment for longer than 7 months. Neuropsychiatric symptoms are likely related to the presence of 5-alpha-reductase isoforms in the brain with resulting alterations in CSF and plasma neuroactive steroid levels and metabolites. Evidence-based treatment options for PFS are limited. PFS is a rare but debilitating syndrome to which a subset of patients appears to be predisposed, but of which the pathophysiology is poorly understood. Further studies in this regard, as well as an exploration of effective treatment options are required. Presentation: 6/1/2024

A bibliometric analysis of alternative drug therapy options in the treatment of androgenetic alopecia.

Oral finasteride and topical minoxidil formulations are the only FDA-approved drug therapies for androgenetic alopecia (AGA). Research into dutasteride, topical finasteride, and nontopical minoxidil (low-dose oral and sublingual) formulations in the treatment of AGA has spiked within recent years. Early findings show that these alternative drug therapies may have similar to improved efficacy and safety profiles relative to the conventional treatment options. Conducting a bibliometric analysis, compare trends in publications on these alternative drug therapies, identify key contributors, evaluate major findings from top-cited articles, and elucidate gaps in evidence. A search was conducted on the Web of Science database for publications on the use of alternative drug therapies in the treatment of AGA. A total of 95 publications, published between January 2003-March 2024, and their citation metadata were included in the analysis. Dutasteride showed the greatest (n = 37) and longest (20+ years) history of publications, as well as the highest cumulative citations (n = 914); however, nontopical minoxidil showed a burst in research activity within the last 5 years (n = 33 publications since 2019). A relatively low number of randomized control trials (n = 3) for nontopical minoxidil suggests a need for higher-quality evidence. Our analysis reveals major trends, contributors, and gaps in evidence for alternative drug therapies for AGA, which can help inform researchers on their future projects in this growing field of study. There is enthusiasm for exploring off-label formulations: nontopical forms of minoxidil (oral and sublingual), topical finasteride, and mesotherapy.

The latest reports on androgenetic alopecia

Androgenetic alopecia (AGA) is the most common type of hair loss among women and men.AGA is caused by a combination of genetic factors resulting in sensitivity to dihydrotestosterone (DHT), which binds to the androgen receptor (AR), mediating a series of biomolecular changes that lead to changes in the hair. There are many mechanisms that can lead to AGA, some of which remain undiscovered. Treatment of AGA is also important for psychological reasons, as it constitutes a significant psychosocial stressor in the lives of people affected by this disease and worsens the quality of life. The only medications approved for the treatment of AGA are oral finasteride and topical minoxidil. These drugs may be associated with side effects, hence the need to look for other treatment methods, especially for patients who cannot tolerate approved methods. The current review focuses on the latest reports on the pathogenesis and treatment of androgenetic alopecia.

A Study on the Effectiveness and Safety of Herbal Extract Combination Compared to 3% Minoxidil Solution for the Treatment of Androgenetic Alopecia: A Randomized, Double-blind, Controlled Trial

Background Androgenetic alopecia (AGA) affects both men and women. Standard treatments include topical minoxidil and oral finasteride, which can cause undesirable side effects. Therefore, a natural herbal extract is required for an alternative treatment. Objectives This study aims to assess both the efficacy and safety profiles of an herbal extract comprising a combination of dihydroquercetin glucoside, epigallocatechin gallate glucoside, zinc, and glycine, compared to the minoxidil solution for the treatment of AGA. Methods About 30 males and 30 females were recruited. The males and females were divided equally into two groups (n=30), randomly receiving either a minoxidil solution or herbal extraction twice a day for 24 weeks. Clinical efficacy, total hair count, and hair mass index (HMI) were evaluated. Results A total of 30 males and 30 females completed the study. The total hair counts (hairs/cm2) at baseline in the herbal group and minoxidil group were 334.8±108.8 and 368.3±178.4, respectively, and the total hair counts at 24 weeks in the herbal group and minoxidil group were 345.0±119.2 and 391.5±183.1 (p<0.001, p<0.001), respectively. The HMI in the herbal and minoxidil groups significantly increased by 25.83±17.18 and 33.70±15.17 (p=0.001, p<0.001) at 24 weeks. However, there was no significant difference in total hair count and HMI between the two groups at 24 weeks (p= 0.250, p=0.065). No local adverse effects were observed in both groups. Conclusions The non-significant difference in efficacy and safety to minoxidil solution suggests that the herbal extraction could be an alternative treatment for AGA. Clinical Trial Registration Number TCTR20220927001.

Effectiveness and safety of the ablative fractional 2940-nm Er: YAG laser for the treatment of androgenetic alopecia.

Laser sources have established their potential effect in inducing hair regrowth. No large cohort study has evaluated the effect of ablative fractional 2940-nm erbium yttrium aluminum garnet (Er: YAG) laser in the treatment of androgenetic alopecia (AGA). To investigate the efficacy and safety of the ablative fractional 2940-nm Er: YAG laser in combination with medication therapy for the treatment of AGA. We performed a retrospective study between first July 2021 to 30th December 2021. All included patients received oral finasteride and topical minoxidil, or combined with six sessions of Er: YAG laser at 2-week intervals. Patients were divided into medication or combined therapy groups. The efficacy of the two therapies was evaluated by the investigator's Global Assessment (IGA) scores and the patient's Likert satisfaction scale at week 12 and week 24. Changes in total, terminal and villous hair count, total and terminal hair diameter, and AGA grade were also recorded. Adverse events were evaluated at each follow-up. A total of 192 male patients with AGA were included, including 67 receiving combination treatment, and 125 receiving medication treatment. At week 24, the combination treatment afforded superior outcomes in the IGA score, patient's global assessment, total and terminal hair counts, and diameters (all P<0.05). No severe adverse events were reported in both groups. The combined therapy of ablative fractional Er: YAG laser and medication was superior in treating male AGA than single medication therapy without serious adverse effects.

Patient-reported outcomes of topical finasteride/minoxidil treatment for male androgenetic alopecia: A retrospective study using telemedical data.

Oral finasteride and topical minoxidil are the current standard of care for male androgenetic alopecia and a combination of the two treatments can be considered for greater efficacy. Clinical trials of topical finasteride have also yielded promising results, but routine care data are lacking. To examine patient-reported outcomes of men with androgenetic alopecia who received topical finasteride admixed with minoxidil compared to the current standard of care (oral finasteride). Retrospective, cross-sectional study with data from a German direct-to-consumer teledermatology platform between December 2021 and January 2023. Patient-reported outcomes were collected through voluntary follow-up questionnaires provided after 6 weeks on topical finasteride/minoxidil or oral finasteride treatment. A total of 1545 patients who received topical finasteride/minoxidil treatment were included; 238 (15.4%) participated in the follow-up questionnaire. At week six, 62.2% (148/238) reported positive changes in their hair appearance, and 44.1% (105/238) reported an improvement of self-esteem. Treatment-related adverse events were reported in 11.8% (28/238). Full treatment adherence was observed in 74.4% (177/238). Comparing the topical treatment group to those receiving oral finasteride, lower treatment adherence was reported, along with higher rates of local adverse events; no difference was found in the incidence of sexual adverse events. Based on patient-reported outcomes, topical finasteride/minoxidil seems to be effective and well tolerated, but not superior to oral finasteride. Lower treatment adherence for topical usage must be considered when considering treatment options. Additional real-world data are needed to further evaluate the efficacy and safety of topical finasteride/minoxidil.

Low-level light therapy versus topical 5% minoxidil in the management of androgenetic alopecia in males: A randomised controlled trial

BackgroundAndrogenetic alopecia (AGA) is the most common non-scarring alopecia affecting men with progressive patterned hair loss and has significant impact on quality of life. Topical minoxidil and oral finasteride are approved for the management of AGA. Low-level light therapy (LLLT) has recently been approved for the management of AGA. Aim of the study was to compare the efficacy of LLLT with 5% minoxidil in male androgenetic alopecia. MethodsThis study was a single-blind randomised controlled trial which included 91 male patients during the study period. Group 1 included 48 patients receiving 5% topical minoxidil application twice daily for 6 months and Group 2 included 43 patients receiving LLLT with the wavelength of 633 ± 10 nm three sessions per week each of 10 min for 06 months. Patients were evaluated at baseline, 3 months, and 6 months with clinical photography and dermoscopy. The data was analysed using SPSS ver 20. ResultsOut of 91 enrolled, 75 completed the study (38 in group 1 and 37 in group 2). At the end of 6 months, 7(18.4%) showed no change, 20 (52.6%) showed mild to moderate growth, and 11 (28.9%) showed excellent growth in the minoxidil group. In the LLLT group; 10 (27%) showed no change, 21 (56.7%) showed mild to moderate growth and 6 (16.2%) showed excellent growth. The mean hair density in the minoxidil group at baseline, 3 months, and 6 months was 97.6 ± 21.6, 116.4 ± 20.4, and 134.6 ± 24, respectively. The mean hair density in the LLLT group at baseline, 3 months, and 6 months was 104.8 ± 22.7, 117.3 ± 25.1, and 130 ± 25.7, respectively. There was a statistically significant (p < 0.001) increase in hair density and improvement in clinical photography from baseline at 3 months and 6 months in both groups. There was no significant difference in the two groups at 3 and 6 months. ConclusionThe results of the LLLT group were comparable to the minoxidil group. No major adverse effects were found in the groups and can be used safely in the treatment of AGA.

Benign Prostate Hypertrophy: An Educational Ultrasound Images and Pharmacotherapy Mini-Review

Background: A benign increase in the size of prostate (Enlargement) can be asymptomatic, but it can cause symptoms resulting from pressure on the urethra, including frequency of urination, difficulty in starting urination, poor urine stream, dribbling after urination, and inability to pass urine. Ultrasonography has been used as early as 1971 for the diagnosis of prostatic enlargement. Patients and Methods: The case of a 53-year old diabetic and hypertensive male who had refractory psoriasis and developed benign enlargement is described and an educational ultrasound images are presented. Results: The patient was complaining of dribbling after micturition for few weeks. He was not having difficulty in starting urination nor complained of frequent micturition, and the urine stream was considered normal. The urinary bladder was normal, but with mild hazy wall outline. Pre-voiding volume was 248 ml, and post-voiding volume was 9 ml. Ultrasound of the prostate showed enlarged prostate with homogenous texture. Prostate volume was 36.6 ml (Normal: 25 ml). Therefore, Oral finasteride was started. Conclusion: Many medications have been used in the treatment of benign enlargement of the prostate during the 1960s, 1970s, and 1980s, including progestational agents, Amino acids, spironolactone, candicidin, nystatin, flutamide, bromocriptine, alpha-adrenergic blockers, Serenoa repens (Saw palmetto extracts), and mepartricin. However, the current evidence-based opinion suggests that benign enlargement of the prostate can be initially treated with medications that can reduce the volume of the prostate such as finasteride and dutasteride. Tamsulosin or alfuzosin can be added to further improve lower urinary symptoms.

Satisfaction of Patients with Androgenetic Alopecia from a Topical Treatment with TH07 - A New Novel Combination of Substances that Safely Encourage Hair Growth

ntroduction: Hair loss can reduce body image satisfaction, leading to fear of social rejection and a perception of losing social attractiveness. Androgenetic alopecia (AGA) is a hair loss condition that primarily affects the top and front of the scalp. Current treatment options for AGA include the U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved topical Minoxidil and oral Finasteride. In addition, many therapies have been suggested for the treatment of AGA, however the outcomes of those treatments vary widely, with limited or no satisfaction being reported. The Triple Hair Inc. company designed the TH07 formula, which contains 3 drugs that have already demonstrated their ability to induce hair re-growth, while still being safe in animal models and human clinical trials. The goal of the current trial was to evaluate the satisfaction of AGA patients with the TH07 treatment.

The Comparative Effects of Monotherapy with Topical Minoxidil, Oral Finasteride, and Topical Finasteride in Postmenopausal Women with Pattern Hair Loss: A Retrospective Cohort Study

Introduction: Oral finasteride and topical minoxidil are long-standing androgenetic alopecia (AGA) treatments; topical finasteride is a more recent medicine. Few studies have compared their therapeutic effects in postmenopausal women. We compared the therapeutic impact of topical finasteride (1–4 sprays of 0.25% topical finasteride solution daily for 12 months), oral finasteride (2.5 mg oral finasteride once daily for 12 months), and topical minoxidil (1 mL of topical minoxidil 5% twice daily for 12 months) in postmenopausal women with AGA. Methods: We conducted Bayesian network meta-analyses of individual patient-level data insofar as four clinically relevant endpoints, namely, 12-month change in (1) total hair density, (2) hair diameter, (3) clinical photographs, and (4) patients’ opinion of efficacy. Data were obtained through medical charts. Regimens’ surface under the cumulative ranking distribution (SUCRA) values and relative effects – as per odds ratios – were computed. Results: As per SUCRA, the most and least effective regimens – across the four outcomes – were oral finasteride, and topical finasteride, respectively; however, no significant statistical differences were found (i.e., p > 0.05). Conclusion: Oral finasteride is ranked more effective than the topical forms of minoxidil and finasteride; however, more studies are needed to confirm this result.

Recent approaches of antibody therapeutics in androgenetic alopecia.

Therapeutic antibodies (Abs) have been anticipated as promising alternatives to conventional treatments such as topical minoxidil and oral finasteride for androgenetic alopecia (AGA). Due to the high molecular weight of typical Abs, the half-life of subcutaneous Abs exceeds 2weeks, allowing an administration intervals of once a month or longer. Direct injection into the areas of hair loss is also feasible, potentially enhancing treatment efficacy while minimizing systemic side effects. However, therapeutic Abs are rarely developed for AGA therapy due to the requirement to be responsiveness to androgens and to exist in the extracellular fluid or cell surface surrounding the hair follicle. In this review, we introduce recent progress of antibody therapeutics in AGA targeting the prolactin receptor, Interleukin-6 receptor, C-X-C motif chemokine ligand 12, and dickkopf 1. As therapeutic Abs for AGA are still in the early stages, targets need further validation and optimization for clinical application.

Medical Treatment for Androgenetic Alopecia.

Androgenetic alopecia is a common type of hair loss, which is generally influenced by genetic factors and systemic androgens resulting in follicular miniaturization.1 It can cause cosmetic problems leading to psychological distress among affected men and women. Effective standard medical treatments available are topical minoxidil 2 to 5%, oral finasteride, oral dutasteride, and hair transplantation.1 However, some patients do not achieve favorable results with standard treatments. For these reasons, other novel treatments have been developed, including new medications, regenerative medicines (autologous platelet-rich plasma, adipose-derived stem cells, micrograft generation, and exosome), and low-level laser therapy.

Active pharmaceutical ingredient-ionic liquids assisted follicular co-delivery of ferulic acid and finasteride for enhancing targeted anti-alopecia

Androgenetic alopecia (AGA) is the primary hair loss with impairing patients’ quality of life. Finasteride (FIN) is an SRD5A2 inhibitor for AGA treatment, but oral FIN causes systemic adverse effects. Topical FIN delivery is anticipated to overcome this problem. Ferulic acid (FA) is a natural phenolic acid with vascular remodeling and anti-inflammatory effects. Herein, an active pharmaceutical ingredient ionic liquid (API IL) based on choline and FA (CF-IL) is for the first time constructed to load FIN for fabricating FIN CF-IL. CF-IL aims to act as carriers and cargos and enhance hair follicle (HF) co-delivery of FA and FIN for synergistic anti-alopecia. Thermal and spectroscopic analysis combined with quantum chemistry calculations and molecular dynamics confirm the formation of CF-IL. The CF-IL simultaneously increases the solubility of FA (∼648-fold) and FIN (∼686-fold), enhances the permeation and retention of FIN and FA through the follicular pathway, and promotes cellular uptake. FIN CFIL regulates the abnormal mRNA expressions in dihydrotestosterone-irritated hDPCs, and promotes hair regrowth in AGA mice in a combined manner with FIN and FA. These findings suggest that FA-based API IL is a promising approach for percutaneously co-delivering FA and FIN to HF, providing an enhanced targeting treatment for AGA.

Topical Finasteride: A Comprehensive Review of Androgenetic Alopecia Management for Men and Women.

The most prevalent kind of alopecia, androgenetic alopecia, commonly known as male or female pattern hair loss, affects both men and women, with the frequency rising with advancing years. Even though practicing dermatologists and hair experts frequently encounter it, it might be one of the most challenging disorders to treat since choosing a course of action frequently requires a comprehensive analysis of several variables and moral judgment. Effectiveness, side effect profiles, practicability, promoting compliance, and treatment cost are the most important factors to take into account, especially given the chronic nature of androgenetic alopecia. A clinician's ability to select the optimum course of treatment for each patient may be constrained and clouded by their knowledge base, experience, and financial compensation. A search was done to find research on the effectiveness of topical finasteride therapy, including clinically pertinent case reports and papers. Only topical minoxidil and oral finasteride are now approved by the Food and Drug Administration and the European Medicines Agency for the treatment of androgenetic alopecia. Despite being effective for hair regeneration, systemic use of finasteride is accompanied by adverse effects that prevent long-term use. Investigating topical finasteride as another possible treatment plan may be fruitful. Early research on the use of topical finasteride is safe and encouraging, despite its limitations. More research on drug distribution, ideal topical strength and usage regularity, adverse effects, and application for other alopecias would aid in elucidating the range of topical finasteride use.

Investigation of oral finasteride enhanced occipital hair diameter index in different types of male androgenetic alopecia

Investigation of oral finasteride enhanced occipital hair diameter index in different types of male androgenetic alopecia

Comparing Current Therapeutic Modalities of Androgenic Alopecia: A Literature Review of Clinical Trials.

Androgenic alopecia (AGA), commonly known as male pattern baldness (MPB), is a hereditary condition characterized by hair follicles that are sensitive to androgens. This article focuses on examining the recent advancements in the comprehension and management of AGA. The genetic factors and pathophysiology of AGA, including the role of dihydrotestosterone (DHT) and the androgen receptor gene, are discussed. The consequences of hair loss on self-esteem and identity, as well as on mental health, are examined. Diagnostic methods, such as the hair-pull test and trichoscopy, are discussed. The article also presents the Hamilton-Norwood classification, which is the most commonly employed system for classifying MPB. The article then delves into the various treatment options available, including topical minoxidil, oral finasteride, platelet-rich plasma therapy, low-level light therapy, hair transplant, and other alternative treatments. The efficacy and combination therapies for these treatments are examined. Additionally, emerging treatments such as caffeine-based solutions and prostaglandin inhibitors are discussed. By examining the recent advancements in AGA treatment, this article provides a comprehensive overview for healthcare professionals to make informed decisions when selecting the best treatment options for their patients.

Common Treatment Formulation for Non-Scaring (Androgenetic) Alopecia

In spite of being a non-life-threatening condition, hair loss (alopecia) severely impacts the quality of life of individuals who experience it. Recent studies indicate that the number of patients suffering from alopecia globally is on the rise. Androgenic alopecia (AGA) affects both genders at all ages. Genetic factors and family history are found to greatly impact the likelihood of experiencing hair loss. Statistics reveal that during the course of their lives, 80% of men experience alopecia, while 40 to 50% of women are likely to face some form of hair shedding. AGA is characterized by frontal-temporal hair shedding in men and hair thinning of the midline part of the scalp for women. A variety of herbal formulations are available on the market to combat AGA, while only two FDA-approved medications exist at the moment: oral finasteride and topical minoxidil. Topical formulations of finasteride are still under clinical trials. Minoxidil and finasteride formulations provide effective AGA treatment for both genders. Recent concerns regarding potential side effects of these two medications have drawn interest in providing new innovative alternative formulations (nutrients, minerals and vitamins) to provide a safer treatment against AGA. This article provides a brief overview of the current and alternative AGA formulations.

Combining rapid degrading microneedles with Slow-Released drug delivery system for the treatment of alopecia areata

Patients suffering from alopecia areata often have limited therapeutic options for anti-hair loss. Compared with hair transplant and oral finasteride, therapy with fewer side effects for alopecia areata has been explored. Herein, a facile minoxidil (MNX) loaded porous UiO-66 microneedle (MN) patch enabling realize rapid-release of UiO-66 and slow-release of MNX simultaneously is reported. The MN patch is composed of polylactic acid (PLA) substrate and hyaluronic acid (HA) MN arrays. Once being inserted under the skin, HA-MN arrays would dissolve rapidly and MNX-loaded UiO-66 releases concurrently in a short time, followed by MNX releasing from UiO-66 continuously under the skin. The therapeutic schedule could reduce the use time and frequency of MN patches effectively to lower the negative effects brought to the patients by the treatment, such as risk of bacterial infection and aesthetic degree of wearing. UiO-66 loaded MN patches present antibacterial activities against Escherichia coli (E. coli) and Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) to avoid bacterial infection during use. PLA substrate provides enough mechanical property to remove the patches entirely after using. After the fabricated MNX-loaded PLA/HA-MNs being inserted, the patches induced the high level of IκBα and low level of p-P65 in the topical treatment via mice model, thus inhibiting the phosphorylation of NF-kappa B (NF-κB) pathway. Collectively, this smart drug slow-release system promotes the safety and effectiveness of treatment for alopecia areata, thus exhibiting potential applications for hair loss.

Androgenetic Alopecia: Therapy Update

Androgenetic alopecia (AGA), also known as male pattern hair loss (MPHL) or female pattern hair loss (FPHL), is the most common form of alopecia worldwide, and arises from an excessive response to androgens. AGA presents itself in a characteristic distribution unique to both sexes. Despite its prevalence, AGA can be quite challenging to treat. The condition is chronic in nature and stems from an interplay of genetic and environmental factors. There are only two US Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-approved drugs for the condition: topical minoxidil and oral finasteride. However, numerous non-FDA-approved treatments have been shown to be effective in treating AGA in various studies. Some of these treatments are relatively new and still to be explored, thus emphasizing the need for an updated review of the literature. In this comprehensive review, we discuss the evaluation of AGA and the mechanisms of action, costs, efficacies, and safety profiles of existing, alternative, and upcoming therapeutics for this widespread condition.