From the Guidelines
Several medications have been found to cause positive changes in hair growth and appearance as an off-label effect, including minoxidil, finasteride, bimatoprost, certain oral contraceptives, and spironolactone. These medications were initially developed for other purposes, such as blood pressure management or prostate enlargement, but were found to have a positive impact on hair growth.
- Minoxidil, for example, was originally developed as a blood pressure medication, but is now widely used for hair regrowth after researchers noticed increased hair growth as a side effect in patients 1.
- Finasteride, initially prescribed for prostate enlargement at 5mg daily, was found to improve male pattern baldness at a lower 1mg daily dose by blocking DHT conversion 1.
- Some patients using bimatoprost eye drops for glaucoma experienced longer, thicker eyelashes, leading to the development of Latisse for eyelash enhancement.
- Certain oral contraceptives containing anti-androgenic progestins like drospirenone can improve hair quality in women with hormone-related hair thinning.
- Spironolactone, a blood pressure medication, is now used off-label at 50-200mg daily to treat female pattern hair loss by blocking androgen receptors. These medications work through various mechanisms, including increasing blood flow to hair follicles, extending the growth phase of hair, or blocking hormones that contribute to hair loss.
- The most effective treatment will depend on the individual's specific hair loss condition and medical history, so consultation with a healthcare provider is essential before using any of these treatments for hair improvement. It is essential to note that while these medications have shown promise in improving hair growth, they may also have side effects, and patients should be closely monitored by a healthcare provider to minimize potential risks.
From the FDA Drug Label
The FDA drug label does not answer the question.
From the Research
Medications with Off-Label Effects on Hair Growth
- Minoxidil: Originally used to treat hypertension, minoxidil has been found to cause hypertrichosis (excessive hair growth) as a side effect 2. It is now commonly used to treat androgenetic alopecia, promoting hair growth through multiple pathways, including vasodilation, anti-inflammatory effects, and induction of Wnt/β-catenin signaling.
- Finasteride: Although primarily used to treat benign prostatic hyperplasia, finasteride has been found to inhibit 5α-reductase type II isoenzyme, reducing dihydrotestosterone (DHT) levels and promoting hair growth 2, 3. It is now used off-label to treat androgenetic alopecia in both men and women.
- Dutasteride: Similar to finasteride, dutasteride is a 5α-reductase inhibitor that has been found to promote hair growth by reducing DHT levels 2, 4. It is used off-label to treat androgenetic alopecia, particularly in men.
Comparison of Medications for Hair Growth
- A network meta-analysis study compared the efficacy of minoxidil, finasteride, and dutasteride for treating female pattern hair loss, finding that 5 mg/day finasteride and 5% topical minoxidil solution were among the most effective treatments 4.
- Another study found that topical minoxidil fortified with finasteride was effective in maintaining hair density after initial treatment with oral finasteride 5.
Alternative Treatments for Hair Loss
- While not directly related to off-label effects, other medications and supplements have been studied for their potential to promote hair growth, including biotin, caffeine, melatonin, and zinc 6. However, the evidence for these alternative approaches is limited, and more research is needed to fully understand their efficacy.