Systemic dexpanthenol as a novel treatment for female pattern hair loss.

BACKGROUND

There are only a few drugs that have been used for the treatment of female pattern hair loss (FPHL).

AIMS

Through use of the Dermatologic Life Quality Index (DLQI) and a modified hair growth questionnaire, we aimed to evaluate the effect of dexpanthenol (DXP) as a new option for FPHL.

METHODS

Women who received 500 mg intramuscular DXP weekly for FPHL were included in this study. They were evaluated in terms of DLQI and laboratory characteristics, before and after DXP treatment, and were examined with a modified hair growth questionnaire.

RESULTS

Overall satisfaction with the appearance of the hair was described by the patients as 57.1% " I am satisfied," 28.6% "I am very satisfied," and 14.3% "I am neutral (neither satisfied nor dissatisfied)." There was a statistical difference between the mean DLQI scores before and after DXP treatment (P < .001). No statistical difference was found in the laboratory characteristics of the patients before and after DXP treatment (P > 0.05). No side effect was reported during DXP treatment.

CONCLUSION

Dexpanthenol is a safe and novel drug that may increase the quality of life in patients with FPHL.