Low-dose oral minoxidil for androgenetic alopecia

(AGA) is a common form of hair loss affecting both men and women. Currently, the most widely used treatment for AGA is topical minoxidil and oral finasteride, both have shown efficacy in promoting hair regrowth.

Several studies have investigated the effectiveness and safety of low-dose oral minoxidil for AGA, with promising results. Low-dose oral minoxidil, typically ranging from 0.25 mg to 5 mg daily, has demonstrated comparable or even superior efficacy to topical minoxidil in promoting hair regrowth.

One of the main advantages of oral minoxidil is its increased systemic absorption, allowing for better distribution to hair follicles. This enhanced delivery mechanism is particularly beneficial for individuals with poor scalp penetration or resistance to topical minoxidil. Additionally, oral minoxidil may provide a more convenient treatment option, eliminating the need for frequent topical application.

The safety profile of low-dose oral minoxidil appears favourable, with minimal side effects reported in most studies. Common adverse events include mild fluid retention, which can be managed by adjusting the dosage or co-administering a diuretic. However, further research is needed to determine the long-term safety and efficacy of oral minoxidil, as most studies have been of short duration and involved small sample sizes.

In conclusion, low-dose oral minoxidil shows promise as an alternative treatment option for AGA, offering improved systemic absorption and potentially greater convenience compared to topical minoxidil. While further research is necessary to establish its long-term safety and efficacy, oral minoxidil holds potential as a valuable addition to the current therapeutic armamentarium for AGA.Finally, topical treatments for psoriasis include the recently FDA-approved tapinarof and roflumilast, but their prices may become a hindrance in other markets.