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

Background: 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. Methods: 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. Results: Analysis of the extent of bald area, hair count and number of terminal hair showed better results in group A compared to group B. Conclusions: Better results were obtained with combination of topical minoxidil with finasteride than with plain topical minoxidil.