Relative safety and efficacy of finasteride for treatment of hirsutism.
OBJECTIVE
To evaluate the relative safety and efficacy of finasteride for treatment of hirsutism related to hyperandrogenism in women.


METHODS
Literature retrieval was accessed through MEDLINE (1966-March 2003) using the terms finasteride and hirsutism. Additional information was obtained from the drug manufacturer.


RESULTS
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.
Townsend
Kara A
KA
Auburn University, Harrison School of Pharmacy, 1504 Springhill Avenue, Suite 1800, Mobile, AL 36604-3273, USA. townska@auburn.edu
Marlowe
Karen F
KF
D058891:5-alpha Reductase Inhibitors; D004791:Enzyme Inhibitors / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D005260:Female; D018120:Finasteride / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D006628:Hirsutism / Q000188:drug therapy*; D006801:Humans; D016032:Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic
D058891:5-alpha Reductase Inhibitors; D004791:Enzyme Inhibitors; D018120:Finasteride