Efficacy and safety of 5% minoxidil topical foam in male pattern hair loss treatment and patient satisfaction

Introduction: Male pattern hair loss is widespread around the world. Its prevalence indicates the importance of finding the best treatment modalities. This study evaluates the efficacy and safety of minoxidil 5% topical foam in male pattern hair loss treatment and patient satisfaction. Methods: This study was a before-and-after trial on 17 male patients with male pattern hair loss. Subjects were instructed to apply one capful (1 ml) of minoxidil 5% topical foam on the scalp daily for 6 months. Efficacy was assessed through hair counts, subject assessment, and global photographic review. Results: Seventeen male volunteers were recruited, and three volunteers were withdrawn; 14 participated in the trial for 16 weeks, and 12 continued up to 24 weeks. The average hair count with a camera at week 16 (181.87 +/- 52.42) and week 24 (194.58 +/- 62.82) and with an eye count at week 16 (62.57 +/- 15.28) and week 24 (69.91 +/- 15.61) increased significantly compared to the baseline after intervention. Conclusion: This study confirmed that minoxidil 5% topical foam is a safe and effective treatment for MPHL. The effect of it is evident after 24 weeks of use.