Medicines for Hirsutism

What it is

Hirsutism is excessive hair growth in women in a "male pattern" — such as on the face (upper lip and chin), chest, back and abdomen — where women do not usually grow coarse, dark hair. It is usually related to the effect of male-type hormones (androgens, which all women have in small amounts) on the hair follicles, either because levels are slightly raised or the follicles are more sensitive to them. The most common underlying cause is polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS); less often it results from other hormonal conditions, certain medicines, or, rarely, tumours that produce hormones. Some women simply have a genetic or ethnic tendency to more body hair, which is normal. Hirsutism itself is not dangerous, but it can be distressing and affect confidence, and it can be a sign of an underlying hormonal condition worth identifying.

How it is treated

Assessment looks for any underlying cause — checking for signs of PCOS or other hormonal conditions, reviewing medicines, and, where indicated, doing blood tests, particularly if the hair growth is sudden, severe, or accompanied by other symptoms (such as a deeper voice or irregular periods), which prompt closer evaluation. Management combines treating any underlying cause with reducing the unwanted hair. Options include hair-removal methods (such as plucking, waxing, shaving, and longer-term methods like laser or electrolysis), a prescription cream that slows facial hair growth, and hormonal treatments (such as certain combined contraceptive pills or other medicines that reduce the effect of male hormones), which take several months to show benefit. Weight loss can help where PCOS and excess weight are involved. Support for the emotional impact matters too. Treatment is tailored to the individual and the cause.