Over-The-Counter Drugs Against Hair Loss
March 2018
in “
Dermatologie pro praxi
”
TLDR Most over-the-counter hair loss treatments lack strong evidence of effectiveness, except for minoxidil, which works but stops working if you stop using it.
The document from March 22, 2018, provides an overview of over-the-counter products and active ingredients available for self-treatment of hair loss, including both oral and topical applications. Although the market offers a wide range of products, few are registered as medicinal products, with most being dietary supplements or cosmetic products. The efficacy of most active ingredients lacks substantial evidence, with the exception of minoxidil, which has a proven effect that disappears 3-4 months after discontinuation. Other ingredients used include caffeine, vitamins, minerals, other nutritional factors, and extracts from medicinal plants. Special consideration is required for pregnant and breastfeeding women, for whom vitamin supplements specifically designed for them are the best choice.