Systemic dexpanthenol as a novel treatment for female pattern hair loss

Abstract

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.

Efficacy of intramuscular injections of biotin and dexpanthenol in the treatment of diffuse hair loss: A randomized, double‐blind controlled study comparing two brands

“…Moreover, new studies have introduced systemic dexpanthenol as a novel treatment for male androgenetic alopecia, which could affect terminal/vellus ratio. 4 We detected such an effect only in Bayer group, which could be due to the different source of active ingredients in the two groups and ceiling effect.…”

“…Shin et al, through animal studies discovered that dexpanthenol could have a beneficial impact on hair loss through proliferative and antiaging effects on follicular dermal papilla and outer root sheath cells. 3 In Kutulu et al's study, dexpanthenol was administered in patients with androgenic alopecia, and patient satisfaction improved significantly, 4 but the evidence is lacking regarding more objective impact of dexpanthenol on hair characteristics.…”

“…In Kutulu et al's study, dexpanthenol was administered in patients with androgenic alopecia, and patient satisfaction improved significantly, 4 but the evidence is lacking regarding more objective impact of dexpanthenol on hair characteristics.…”

“…Vitamin B5 has a crucial role in acetyl‐COA production in fatty acids metabolism, much like pantothenic acid, or the precursor, dexpanthenol. However, unlike its well‐known anti‐inflammatory, hydrating and wound healing effects, its role in preventing or treating hair loss is controversial and not well studied 3,4,5 …”

Dexpanthenol Promotes Cell Growth by Preventing Cell Senescence and Apoptosis in Cultured Human Hair Follicle Cells

“…In addition, D-panthenol has long been used for hair and scalp care products, especially for the purpose of anti-hair loss. Several clinical studies reported that the oral administration of D-panthenol improved female pattern hair loss as well as male androgenetic alopecia [22,23]. Its effects on hair follicle cells and underlying mechanisms, however, were barely reported.…”