Ketoconazole and Androgenetic Alopecia Ketoconazole is an anti-fungal medication that is generally prescribed to treat infections that involve the mouth, urinary tract, and epidermis. However, it has also been shown to help stimulate new hair growth.
Ketoconazole has been shown to be particularly effective in treating people who suffer from androgenetic alopecia; better known as male and female pattern baldness.
Furthermore, androgenetic alopecia, while more common in men than women, leads to hair thinning over the entire scalp region for women, and hair loss around the crown area of the head in males. It is also important to note that ketoconazole is available in a shampoo to not only treat fungal infections but also other scalp-based conditions.
There are also two different versions of ketoconazole that are currently available on the market; namely a 1% and 2% variant. The 1% version is available for purchase over-the-counter, while the more potent 2% version can only be purchased with a prescription. In terms of effectiveness, the American Hair Loss Association claims that the 2% version is more effective than the 1% version, although it may cause more unpleasant side effects in some patients.
How Ketoconazole Works
The way in which ketoconazole works in facilitating hair growth is by reversing the effects of dihydrotestosterone in patients who suffer from male or female pattern baldness. Dihydrotestosterone causes hair loss by binding to scalp follicle receptors, causing hair follicles to not only shrink but also making it impossible for normal, healthy hair to persist. As a result, follicular hair generation becomes impossible, leading to continual hair loss that may lead to complete baldness without proper treatment. Fortunately, the 2% version of ketoconazole has been shown to be effective in stimulating hair growth in mice, according to a study conducted by J. Jiang that was published in the Journal of Dermatology in 2005. Ketoconazole not only helps to stop shedding, but over time helps to stimulate new growth.
Many people prefer the ease of purchasing the 1% solution over the counter. However, if you believe you may need a 2% solution, you should consult your physician.
When using a ketoconazole shampoo you should also allow the shampoo to rest on your scalp for 5 minutes before you rinse your head. Furthermore, to maximize effectiveness, the ketoconazole shampoo should be applied on a regular basis, without skipping any doses. Ketoconazole shampoos have little to no side effects.
The most commonly reported side effects are a stinging sensation in the eyes, which can happen when any shampoo gets in your eyes. Such side effects generally come to pass with repeated use. It is also important to note that some ketoconazole shampoos contain sulfates, which was trigger allergic reactions in some patients, particularly those who suffer from asthma.
We recommend always using a paraben & sulfate free shampoo. Women who are nursing or are pregnant should also consult their doctors to determine if ketoconazole treatments are safe for them. Click here to learn more on the Regenepure DR.
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