Study of the safety and efficacy of topical minoxidil(5%) versus Minoxidil(5%) and Finasteride (0.1%) combination in the treatment of androgenetic alopecia in men

Androgenetic alopecia is a genetically determined pattern of baldness. it causes an alteration in hair cycle dynamics that is characterised by stepwise miniaturisation of the hair follicle. This leads to vellus transformation of the terminal hair follicles. Genetic factors and androgens both play a key role in causing androgenetic hair loss. Several studies have been conducted testing the benefits of topical minoxidil and oral finasteride for the treatment of androgenetic alopecia. However, studies to prove the benefits of its combination are few in number. Hence this comparative study is undertaken. objective of the study is to compare the safety and efficacy of topical minoxidil(5%) and minoxidil(5%) +finasteride (0.1%) combination adult male patients with androgenetic alopecia and determine the various clinical patterns of androgenetic alopecia. 40 patients are enrolled in the study in which 20 patient will be treated with minoxidil(5%)(GROUP A) and other 20 will be treated with Minoxidil(5%) +Finasteride (0.1%) combination(GROUP B). Both the group will be instructed to apply 1 ml topically over the scalp. Follow up will be done every month for 4 months. Dermoscopic images of the scalp will be taken at initial visit, 8th week and 16th week. Patient will be assessed for hair growth using 5 point scale grade 1(Markedly improved), grade 2 (Moderately improved), grade 3 (slightly improved), grade 4 (unchanged), grade 5 (worsened). patient were assessed for any adverse effects of therapy at each visit.Data will be collected and analysed by frequency, percentage, Mean, standard deviation and chi-square test.