By definition, a drug is a medicine or substance that exerts a physiologic effect on an organism. In dermatology, various medications and substances are utilized on a daily basis, ranging from topical treatments to anesthetics in micrographic surgery. The purpose of this section is to focus on some of the more common substances, specifically how they work, how they are utilized, and their routine alternatives (if available). The mechanism of action, usage, and alternative options of the medication finasteride are discussed.
Patrick M. Zito, DO, PharmD, RPh, FASCP, FRSPH, College of Health Sciences, School of Nursing, Walden University, Minneapolis, MN.
Nady Hin, DO, Delaware County Memorial Hospital, Drexel Hill, PA.
The authors declare no conflict of interest.
Correspondence concerning this article should be addressed to Patrick M. Zito, DO, PharmD, RPh, FASCP, FRSPH, College of Health Sciences, School of Nursing, Walden University, 100 Washington Ave., S. Suite 900, Minneapolis, MN 55401. E-mail: Patrick.zito@waldenu.edu
