Topical 2% Minoxidil Solution in Male Pattern Alopecia: The Initial European Experience

A double-blind, 48-week study conducted in Europe evaluated the safety and efficacy of a 2% minoxidil solution for treating male pattern baldness. The study involved 428 patients, with 384 evaluable at the end of the placebo-controlled period and 329 at the study's conclusion. Initially, patients were randomly assigned to receive either the minoxidil solution or a placebo for 24 weeks, after which placebo patients switched to the minoxidil treatment. Results showed that the mean nonvellus hair count in the minoxidil group was significantly higher than in the placebo group at week 24 (p=0.0187), and the increase in nonvellus hair from baseline to week 24 was also significantly greater in the minoxidil group (p=0.0385). From weeks 24 to 48, both groups experienced a statistically significant increase in nonvellus hair count. Patients' and investigators' assessments indicated significant differences in hair growth favoring the minoxidil treatment at week 24. The study concluded that the 2% minoxidil solution was safe and effective for treating male pattern baldness, with dermatologic side effects being the primary medical events observed.