A new oral version of minoxidil, known as VDPHL01, has successfully passed late-stage clinical trials, showing promise for treating hair loss. Announced by Veradermix, the trial results indicate that a significantly higher percentage of men taking the drug experienced hair growth compared to a placebo. If regulatory approval is granted, VDPHL01 could transform treatment for pattern hair loss, according to experts.
Topical minoxidil, the conventional treatment for over 30 years, is effective but has drawbacks, including skin irritation and a sticky residue. While low doses of oral minoxidil are used off-label by dermatologists, VDPHL01 is designed as a unique sustained-release formulation to balance effective hair growth with minimized cardiovascular side effects.
The trial involved over 500 men, with nearly 79% of those taking a single daily dose and 86% of those on a twice-daily dose reporting significant hair growth, compared to only 36% in the placebo group. The drug was found to be safe and well-tolerated, with few reported side effects.
If approved, VDPHL01 would be the first new oral hair loss treatment in nearly three decades and could become a preferred option over existing treatments like finasteride. Other promising hair loss treatments, such as topical clascoterone and PP405, are also in the pipeline, potentially enhancing future options for patients.
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