Comparing the Effectiveness of Local Solution of Minoxidil and Caffeine 2.5% with Local Solution of Minoxidil 2.5% in Treatment of Androgenetic Alopecia

In a double-blind randomized clinical trial involving 60 patients, the study assessed the efficacy of a topical solution combining caffeine and 2.5% minoxidil versus a solution with only 2.5% minoxidil for treating androgenetic alopecia. The patients were split into two groups, with one receiving the caffeine and minoxidil solution and the other just minoxidil, applying 1 milliliter twice daily over 150 days. Results indicated that the combination treatment was more effective, showing a statistically significant increase in hair count from around day 120 compared to the minoxidil-only group. The study suggests that caffeine may enhance minoxidil absorption and improve microcirculation, as well as inhibit the 5a-reductase (5aR) enzyme, which contributes to hair loss. The findings recommend further research with a larger sample size to confirm the benefits of combining caffeine with minoxidil for this condition.