Valproic acid
aka - valproate
Valproic acid, first made in 1881 used since 1962, is primarily known for its use as an anticonvulsant and mood-stabilizing drug, and has recently garnered attention in the field of dermatology for its potential effects on hair growth and alopecia treatment. Scientifically, valproic acid operates by increasing the levels of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) in the brain, but its effects on hair growth are thought to be mediated through different pathways, possibly involving the inhibition of histone deacetylases (HDAC) which can influence gene expression beneficial for hair follicle health and activity.
Research has highlighted valproic acid's capacity to induce hair regeneration in both animal models and human dermal papilla cells by activating alkaline phosphatase activity—an enzyme associated with hair growth and follicle development. Studies indicate that valproic acid can promote hair growth by elongating the hair shaft and delaying the transition to the catagen (regression) phase, alongside promoting the anagen (growth) phase in vivo, providing a promising avenue for alopecia treatment.
The community's engagement with valproic acid reflects a keen interest in its utility for hair loss, with discussions often revolving around personal experiences and the exploration of valproic acid as a novel treatment. Community members share anecdotal evidence of its efficacy, particularly when used topically, noting improvements in hair density and growth. However, experiences vary, and while some individuals report positive outcomes, others call for more extensive research to conclusively determine its effectiveness and optimal application methods.
In summary, valproic acid presents a promising, albeit still under-researched, option for treating alopecia by potentially enhancing hair growth and follicle health through mechanisms distinct from its neurological effects. While initial research and community experiences offer hope, the call for further scientific investigation is clear to fully establish valproic acid's role in hair loss therapy.
Research
20 / 444 results
research Valproic Acid and/or Rapamycin Preconditioning Protects Hair Follicle Stem Cells from Oxygen Glucose Serum Deprivation-Induced Oxidative Injury via Activating Nrf2 Pathway
research Small RNAs Loom Large During Reprogramming
research Generation of iPS Cells from Human Hair Follicle Dermal Papilla Cells
research Changes in Growth and Distribution of Hair Associated with Psychotropic Drug Use
research The Role of Candidate Pharmacogenetic Variants in Determining Valproic Acid Efficacy, Toxicity, and Concentrations in Patients with Epilepsy
research Cosmetic Side Effects of Antiepileptic Drugs in Adults With Epilepsy
research Visual Field Defect in a Patient Given Sodium Valproate Then Carbamazepine: Possible Effect of Aminotransferase Inhibition
research Adverse Cutaneous Effects of Psychotropic Medications
research Hair Loss in Psychopharmacology
research Valproic Acid Induces Hair Regeneration in Murine Model and Activates Alkaline Phosphatase Activity in Human Dermal Papilla Cells
research An Analysis of Ultrastructure of the Hair of Children Treated With Valproic Acid
research Perampanel-Induced Hair Curling in a Patient with Epilepsy Associated with Pitt Hopkins Syndrome
research Safety and Tolerability of Antiepileptic Drugs in Women with Epilepsy
research Low Serum Biotinidase Activity in Children with Valproic Acid Monotherapy
research Transdermal Delivery of Valproate–Choline Ionic Liquid Induces Hair Regrowth
research Generation of iPS Cells from Human Hair Follicle Dermal Papilla Cells
research Cosmetic Effects of Anti-Epileptic Drugs (AEDs)
research Sodium Valproate Improves Skin Flap Survival via Gamma-Aminobutyric Acid and Histone Deacetylase Inhibitory System
research Hair Loss in Psychopharmacology
