Comparing Minoxidil, Finasteride, and Dutasteride for Hair Loss: What Works Best?
Dr. Kumar’s Take:
A recent network meta-analysis suggests that among the available treatments for male androgenetic alopecia (AGA), 0.5 mg of oral dutasteride has the highest probability of being the most effective. The study ranks treatments based on total and terminal hair count improvements at 24 and 48 weeks, providing a clearer picture of what works best.
Brief Summary:
The study analyzed 23 trials comparing oral and topical minoxidil, finasteride, and dutasteride for male AGA. The results indicate that 0.5 mg/day of dutasteride outperformed all other treatments, followed by 5 mg/day of oral finasteride and 5 mg/day of oral minoxidil. Topical formulations of minoxidil were less effective but still beneficial.