TLDR Valproic acid can cause hair loss when taken orally but may promote hair growth when applied topically.
Valproic acid, commonly used to treat seizures and as a mood stabilizer, is known to cause side effects including hair loss, which is dose-dependent and typically non-scarring. This hair loss, known as telogen effluvium, usually begins 2 to 6 months after treatment initiation. However, recent studies have revealed a paradoxical effect where topical valproic acid can promote hair growth. An experimental study in South Korea using murine models and human dermal papilla cells demonstrated that topical valproic acid can induce hair regrowth by activating the Wnt/β-catenin pathway. A clinical trial also showed that topical valproic acid significantly increased hair count in male patients with androgenetic alopecia compared to a placebo. These findings suggest that while valproic acid can cause hair loss as a side effect, it may also have the potential to be used as a treatment for alopecia when applied topically. Further evidence-based human studies and molecular research are needed to confirm these findings and understand the mechanisms behind valproic acid-induced hair growth.
46 citations,
December 2014 in “Epilepsy & behavior” Some antiepileptic drugs can cause weight gain and hair loss, especially in women.
37 citations,
February 2014 in “Journal of Dermatology” Valproic acid increases hair count in men with hair loss.
61 citations,
January 2013 in “Indian Journal of Dermatology, Venereology and Leprology” Hair usually grows back 1-3 months after treatment for anagen effluvium, and children with Loose Anagen Hair Syndrome often improve by adolescence.
85 citations,
April 2012 in “PLOS ONE” Valproic Acid helps regrow hair in mice and activates a hair growth marker in human cells.
16 citations,
October 2004 in “Acta dermato-venereologica” Two people lost a lot of hair because of epilepsy drugs, but their hair grew back after changing medication.
39 citations,
March 2018 in “Archives of Dermatological Research” Androgens may block hair growth signals, targeting this could treat hair loss.
13 citations,
January 2016 in “Journal of cosmetology & trichology” Alternative treatments show promise for hair growth beyond traditional methods.
110 citations,
August 2016 in “Drugs” Minoxidil is the only FDA-approved topical drug for treating male or female pattern hair loss, and other medications like finasteride and dutasteride can also increase hair growth.
11 citations,
January 2018 in “International journal of trichology” Valproate can cause hair loss and changes in hair appearance, but may help regrow hair when applied topically.
45 citations,
August 2019 in “Dermatologic Therapy” Hair loss treatments work better with lifestyle changes.
