Effective hair loss treatments identified for male androgenic alopecia

Investigators may have uncovered which treatments help manage androgenic alopecia.

In a systematic review and network meta-analysis published in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, the investigators used data from PubMed and Scopus databases to analyze the efficacy of 15 conventional treatment options and over-the-counter alternatives in male patients with androgenic alopecia across 24 studies.

The investigators reaffirmed the effectiveness of conventional therapies such as oral dutasteride, topical or oral minoxidil, and oral or topical finasteride — with oral dutasteride demonstrating the greatest increases in hair density. Though less effective compared with conventional treatments, over-the-counter topical melatonin and rosemary oil showed some benefit in this patient population.

Further studies directly comparing the effects of conventional and over-the-counter products could better establish relative efficacy.

Read more: Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology

The article presented here is intended to inform you about the broader media perspective on dentistry, regardless of its alignment with the ADA's stance. It is important to note that publication of an article does not imply the ADA's endorsement, agreement, or promotion of its content.