Topical Minoxidil Does Little for Baldness

September 1989 in “ Drug and Therapeutics Bulletin ”

topical minoxidil male-pattern baldness oral minoxidil hypertrichosis Regaine

TLDR Topical minoxidil is not very effective for baldness.

The document discussed the use of topical minoxidil, specifically a 2% solution marketed as Regaine, for male-pattern baldness. It was noted that while oral minoxidil for hypertension often led to hypertrichosis and occasionally improved male-pattern baldness, the topical formulation aimed to stimulate hair growth without systemic effects. However, it was not licensed for use by women or for other forms of baldness and was only available through private prescription in the UK since May 1988. The document suggested that topical minoxidil did little for baldness.

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