2% Topical Minoxidil Solution in Male-Pattern Baldness: Preliminary European Results

A 48-week study conducted in France, West Germany, and the UK evaluated the efficacy and safety of 2% topical minoxidil for early male-pattern baldness. At week 24, 225 patients were assessed, with 116 in the treatment group and 109 in the placebo group. The minoxidil group showed significant improvements in non-vellus hair counts and hair growth evaluations compared to placebo, with no significant differences in blood pressure, pulse, or weight changes. Dermatological side effects were mild. From weeks 24 to 48, all patients received minoxidil, resulting in further hair growth, with 32.7% showing moderate or dense new hair growth by week 48. The study concluded that topical minoxidil was a safe and effective treatment for some patients with early male-pattern baldness, though further research was needed to identify likely responders.