Finasteride in a 1-mg Dose Is Safe and Effective

As an investigator and contributing author of studies on finasteride and male pattern hair loss,¹ I am writing in response to the commentary by Frankel² published in the March 1999 issue of the ARCHIVES. In his commentary, Frankel raises concerns about the dosage, long-term adverse effects, and costs of Propecia (finasteride, 1 mg). It is appropriate to raise and publish opinions about controversial issues. Commentaries, however, are not held to the same rigorous scrutiny and high scientific standards as peer-reviewed articles.