{Reference Type}: Journal Article
{Title}: Patient-reported outcomes of topical finasteride/minoxidil treatment for male androgenetic alopecia: A retrospective study using telemedical data.
{Author}: Abeck F;Hansen I;Kött J;Schröder F;Garrahy E;Veneroso J;Rünger A;Torster L;Schneider SW;von Büren J;
{Journal}: J Cosmet Dermatol
{Volume}: 0
{Issue}: 0
{Year}: 2024 May 7
{Factor}: 2.189
{DOI}: 10.1111/jocd.16360
{Abstract}: <B>BACKGROUND: </B>Oral finasteride and topical minoxidil are the current standard of care for male androgenetic alopecia and a combination of the two treatments can be considered for greater efficacy. Clinical trials of topical finasteride have also yielded promising results, but routine care data are lacking.<BR><B>OBJECTIVE: </B>To examine patient-reported outcomes of men with androgenetic alopecia who received topical finasteride admixed with minoxidil compared to the current standard of care (oral finasteride).<BR><B>METHODS: </B>Retrospective, cross-sectional study with data from a German direct-to-consumer teledermatology platform between December 2021 and January 2023. Patient-reported outcomes were collected through voluntary follow-up questionnaires provided after 6 weeks on topical finasteride/minoxidil or oral finasteride treatment.<BR><B>RESULTS: </B>A total of 1545 patients who received topical finasteride/minoxidil treatment were included; 238 (15.4%) participated in the follow-up questionnaire. At week six, 62.2% (148/238) reported positive changes in their hair appearance, and 44.1% (105/238) reported an improvement of self-esteem. Treatment-related adverse events were reported in 11.8% (28/238). Full treatment adherence was observed in 74.4% (177/238). Comparing the topical treatment group to those receiving oral finasteride, lower treatment adherence was reported, along with higher rates of local adverse events; no difference was found in the incidence of sexual adverse events.<BR><B>CONCLUSIONS: </B>Based on patient-reported outcomes, topical finasteride/minoxidil seems to be effective and well tolerated, but not superior to oral finasteride. Lower treatment adherence for topical usage must be considered when considering treatment options. Additional real-world data are needed to further evaluate the efficacy and safety of topical finasteride/minoxidil.