Efficacy of Topical Combination of 0.25% Finasteride and 3% Minoxidil Versus 3% Minoxidil Solution in Female Pattern Hair Loss:

madman · Oct 14, 2018

Efficacy of Topical Combination of 0.25% Finasteride and 3% Minoxidil Versus 3% Minoxidil Solution in Female Pattern Hair Loss: A Randomized, Double‑Blind, Controlled Study

Key Points

The efficacy of oral finasteride in female pattern hair loss (FPHL) has been reported. Topical formulations of finasteride have been developed in an attempt to minimize systemic adverse effects.

Our study revealed the efficacy of topical finasteride/ minoxidil in the treatment of FPHL; the combination treatment also increased hair diameter over topical minoxidil alone.

Topical finasteride/minoxidil may be a promising treatment option in FPHL. However, given the possibility of systemic absorption, it should be reserved for postmenopausal women with no personal or family history of breast cancer.

5 Conclusion

FMX may be considered a promising option for the treatment of FPHL as it had an additional benefit over MX as monotherapy in terms of increasing hair diameter. However, the possibility of systemic absorption means it should be reserved for postmenopausal women with no personal or family history of breast cancer.

madman · Jun 7, 2025

Thread 'FDA alerts of potential risks associated with compounded topical finasteride products'

Jun 7, 2025

* FDA has become aware of reports of adverse events associated with the use of compounded topical finasteride. There were 32 cases reported to the FDA Adverse Event Reporting System between 2019 and 2024. Absorption of finasteride through the skin into the bloodstream is expected, and the reports describe adverse events that are consistent with those reported in association with the approved oral finasteride products, such as erectile dysfunction, anxiety, suicidal ideation, brain fog, depression, fatigue, insomnia, decreased libido and testicular pain following the use of...