Valproate: Its Effects on Hair

The document discussed the dualistic effects of valproate on hair, noting that while oral valproate, used for epilepsy and bipolar disorder, could cause reversible hair loss in up to 12% of users, topical valproate showed potential for promoting hair regeneration. Hair loss from oral valproate was dose-related and included changes in hair texture and color. Conversely, studies, including a clinical study on male patients with androgenetic alopecia, indicated that topical valproate increased hair count and activated hair growth mechanisms. Further research was needed to fully understand these contrasting effects.