Publication:

A questionnaire-based survey among Indian dermatologists regarding the management of androgenetic alopecia with a novel formulation containing alcohol-free minoxidil, procapil and finasteride

Background Androgenetic alopecia (AGA) is a common condition affecting all age groups. Topical minoxidil and finasteride are approved treatments for AGA. The study assessed dermatologists’ perceptions of AGA prevalence and opinions regarding minoxidil including combinations, dihydrotestosterone (DHT) blockers and peptides in AGA management.

Methods The survey was conducted among 245 dermatologists across India, with experience in AGA management. It comprised 32 questions on patient demographics of AGA, treatment strategies and patient compliance with topical minoxidil. Responses from participating dermatologists were analysed and reported using descriptive statistics.

Results According to 51.4% of dermatologists, AGA prevalence ranged from 30%-40%. Topical minoxidil + finasteride solution with oral nutritional supplements was preferred by 49.3% of dermatologists for treating AGA in men. Around 50.6% dermatologists preferred 5% minoxidil topical solution for treating female patients. About 79.4% agreed or strongly agreed that topical, alcohol-free minoxidil would be better than topical, alcohol-based minoxidil for AGA. According to 51.0% of dermatologists, AGA can be managed more effectively and safely with topical, alcohol-free minoxidil + procapil + finasteride than with topical alcohol-based minoxidil + finasteride. Approximately 55% and 45% of dermatologists rated alcohol-free minoxidil + procapil + finasteride as ‘good’ and ‘excellent’ for treating AGA, respectively. Alcohol-free minoxidil + procapil + finasteride was better tolerated than conventional alcohol-based minoxidil + finasteride by ~62.0% of dermatologists. Patient adherence to alcohol-free minoxidil + procapil + finasteride was rated as ‘good’ by ~64.0% of dermatologists.

Conclusions Dermatologists preferred alcohol-free minoxidil with procapil and finasteride over conventional alcohol-based formulations in AGA management.