The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved two medications for Androgenic Alopecia which is Finasteride and Minoxidil. Finasteride: A selective type II 5-alpha-reductase inhibitor that prevents conversion of testosterone to dihydrotestosterone. It is normally taken in 1mg dosage once daily.  While the efficacy is said to be good and can reduce DHT level up to 70%, it’ side effects has become one of the main concern which includes decreased libido (1.8%), erectile dysfunction(1.3%), and ejaculatory dysfunction (1.2%). Study shows that these side effects doesn’t persists once the medication is stopped. Finasteride is used in treating Male Pattern Baldness.

Minoxidil was developed as an antihypertensive medication but was found to increase hair survival. This might be to it’s vasodilator effect. While few practitioners still continues giving oral minoxidil as the treatment that comes in 2% and 5% formulation is more widely used for both men and women. It is applied to the scalp twice daily. Studies have shown that application of minoxidil improves hair growth. Adverse side effects include scalp irritation, and contact dermatitis. Other natural based medications are also used to treat Androgenetic Alopecia and will be discussed further in upcoming volumes.