The German Double-Blind Placebo-Controlled Evaluation of Topical Minoxidil Solution in the Treatment of Early Male Pattern Baldness

A 24-week double-blind, placebo-controlled study conducted in Germany evaluated the safety and efficacy of a 2% minoxidil solution for treating early male pattern baldness. The study involved 163 patients who applied either the placebo or the minoxidil solution twice daily. Results showed that the 2% minoxidil solution was significantly more effective than the placebo in increasing nonvellus hair count and in both investigator and patient evaluations of hair regrowth. Two patients, one from each group, discontinued due to scalp dermatitis, which was linked to the treatment. No significant changes in vital signs or laboratory parameters were noted, indicating that the 2% minoxidil solution was a safe and effective treatment for early male pattern baldness.