Medications

Cyproterone acetate

An anti-androgen used in selected women with pattern hair loss, especially where hyperandrogenism is relevant.

Cyproterone acetate has anti-androgenic and progestogenic effects and has been used for female pattern hair loss in some countries and clinical contexts, often alongside hormonal contraception. It may be considered when signs of androgen excess are present, but evidence and licensing vary by region. It is not used in men for hair loss and is not suitable during pregnancy. Potential risks mean it should only be used after medical assessment and discussion of safer or better-supported alternatives.

References:

DermNet diffuse alopecia: https://dermnetnz.org/topics/diffuse-alopecia ; Ramos et al., An Bras Dermatol 2023: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.abd.2022.09.006

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