We’ve had inquiries about the recent New York Times article, “An Old Medicine Grows New Hair for Pennies a Day, Doctors Say”. It explores the use of low dose minoxidil orally for the treatment of genetic hair loss (androgenetic alopecia).
This common condition appears with increased frequency with age in men and women. Current FDA approved treatments include topical minoxidil (available OTC) and oral finasteride (for men by prescription). Some patient’s benefit from scalp injections of platelet rich plasma, PRP, reported in our June 2021 newsletter, posted on our website blog.
Minoxidil is a potent medication that is FDA approved to treat high blood pressure. While serious side effects may occur, they appear to be dose related. Fortunately, the doses used to treat hair loss are considerably lower with a better safety profile.
This off label use of minoxidil may be considered for selected patients with suboptimal results from their current hair loss regimen. If you are experiencing hair loss, schedule an appointment with your dermatologist to discuss treatment options.
