Relative safety and efficacy of finasteride for treatment of hirsutism.

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.