Efficacy and safety of spironolactone versus bicalutamide in female pattern hair loss: A retrospective comparative study

Background

Female-pattern hair loss (FPHL) is characterized by decreased scalp hair density, thinning of hair shafts, and progressive miniaturization of hair follicles.

Objective

To compare the safety and efficacy of spironolactone versus bicalutamide in female pattern hair loss [FPHL].

Methods

The study design was retrospective, and all eligible females aged between 18 years and 50 years with FPHL were included. We identified 120 patients from our database who fulfilled the inclusion and exclusion criteria, and patients were then categorized into two groups, Group A comprising patients who were taking 100 mg of spironolactone once daily and Group B comprising patients who were taking 50 mg of bicalutamide once daily along with topical minoxidil 2% in both groups. Patient were analysed at approximately at 24 weeks from the commencement of the treatment.

Results

Mean reduction in hair loss severity score on Sinclair scale was 19.51% in spironolactone group compared to 28.20% in bicalutamide group at 24 weeks, which was statistically significant. On global photographic assessment, marked improvement was seen in bicalutamide group compared to spironolactone group (p = 0.139).

Conclusions

Our study, though limited by its retrospective design and small sample size, showed that bicalutamide has greater efficacy and better safety profile in comparison to spironolactone in the treatment of FPHL.