Why does Minoxidil only work for 30% of people?

Question

Are there factors that increase success rate? For example, if someone starts using Minox early, do they have a higher success rate or is it completely independent of that?

John E. Frank, MD · Answer

Very good question.I don't think anybody really knows the answer.But Dr Donovan and Dr Rapaport's answers are interesting.Unfortunately, I frequently find Minoxidil accelerating dandruffand sebhorrea.  John Frank, MDNew YorkOhio

Jeff Rapaport, MD · Answer

The reason the success rate for minoxidil is between 30 and 40% is due to the inability of people to metabolize minoxidil to its active component. In my opinion, using a microneedle roller can increase the effectiveness. Side effects are increased when using this technique.  Although I don't recommend it, recent studies from Europe have shown that injection of minoxidil into the scalp is effective in hair regrowth and diminishing hair loss. Hope this helps. Good luck.

Jeff Donovan, MD, PhD · Answer

People who start minoxidil earlier have somewhat of a better chance of be responders compared to those who start very late.However, the real reason why some respond and some don't probably has more to do with how a given patient metabolizes minoxidil.Recent studies have turned to focusing on whether the activity of an enzyme in hair follicles called the sulfotransferase enzyme can help predict who minoxidil will and will not help. Two studies have previously reported that sulfotransferase enzyme activity in plucked hair follicles predicts a patient's response to topical minoxidil therapy. In a new study, researchers confirmed the clinical utility of a sulfotransferase enzyme test in successfully ruling out 96% of nonresponders to topical minoxidil for the treatment of AGA.

William Rassman, MD (retired) · Answer

This drug was originally developed to treat high blood pressure and it was noted that it grew hair in some people. It was then supplied as a topical and it worked topically. No on knows the answer to your questions, but the hair growth of this drug is a side effect not the original target for its manufacture.

Why does Minoxidil only work for 30% of people?

Answers (4)

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