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Published Online, 20 April 2004, www.theannals.com, DOI 10.1345/aph.1D461.
 The Annals of Pharmacotherapy: Vol. 38, No. 6, pp. 1070-1073. DOI 10.1345/aph.1D461
© 2004 Harvey Whitney Books Company.
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DRUG INFORMATION ROUNDS

Relative Safety and Efficacy of Finasteride for Treatment of Hirsutism

Kara A Townsend, PharmD

Assistant Clinical Professor, Auburn University, Harrison School of Pharmacy; Adjunct Assistant Professor, Department of Family Practice, University of South Alabama, Mobile, AL

Karen F Marlowe, PharmD BCPS

Assistant Clinical Professor, Auburn University, Harrison School of Pharmacy; Adjunct Assistant Professor, Department of Internal Medicine, University of South Alabama

Reprints: Kara A Townsend PharmD, Auburn University, Harrison School of Pharmacy, 1504 Springhill Ave., Suite 1800, Mobile, AL 36604-3273, fax 251/434-3985, townska{at}auburn.edu

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

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

DATA SYNTHESIS: 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.

Key Words: antiandrogens, finasteride, hirsutism

Published Online, April 20, 2004. www.theannals.com, DOI 10.1345/aph.1D461


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[Abstract] [Full Text] [PDF]


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