AN INTERNATIONAL expert panel of 43 dermatologists has established an expert consensus on the off-label use of low-dose oral minoxidil (LDOM) for treating hair loss. This initiative, involving specialists from 12 countries, aimed to fill the gaps left by smaller studies and the lack of standardized guidelines for this increasingly popular treatment.
Through a modified Delphi process, the group reached agreement on 76 items across key areas, such as indications for LDOM use, patient eligibility, contraindications, and monitoring strategies. The consensus addresses both adult and adolescent patients, recognizing LDOM’s role as a preferred treatment in certain cases compared to topical minoxidil. However, pediatric use in children under 12 years and titration protocols remain areas needing further clarification and research.
Key recommendations include baseline evaluations and precautionary measures before starting treatment, emphasizing the importance of monitoring for potential adverse effects. The panel also acknowledged the absence of high-quality, evidence-based data, which underscores the need for further trials to solidify LDOM’s long-term safety and efficacy.
This consensus provides much-needed guidance for clinicians treating patients with hair loss, offering a framework for best practices while awaiting more robust data. As additional research emerges, these guidelines are expected to evolve to better meet patient needs.
