July 2025 in “Indian Journal of Endocrinology and Metabolism”
The guideline emphasizes a multidisciplinary approach and informed consent for gender-affirming hormone treatment, with regular follow-ups and individualized care.
Minoxidil is used for hair loss and sometimes for high blood pressure, but it's outdated for the latter. For high blood pressure, it's combined with a beta blocker and diuretic to manage side effects.
Doctors recommend starting with minoxidil for hair loss due to its lower risk of side effects compared to finasteride. Some believe finasteride should be used early to address the root cause, but a conservative approach is preferred by medical professionals.
Evidence-based treatments for androgenic alopecia, such as minoxidil, finasteride, low-level laser light therapy, dutasteride, platelet-rich plasma, and topical ketoconazole. It discusses the efficacy, safety, and mechanism of action of these treatments, as well as future developments in understanding this polygenic condition.
Finasteride is prescribed at 1mg because it is FDA-approved and proven effective, despite evidence that 0.2mg may similarly reduce DHT. The 1mg dose is more effective for hair growth, and lower doses are less available.