Low-dose oral minoxidil (LDOM) and topical minoxidil: consensus recommendations for managing male and female pattern Hair loss in Hair transplant patients using a modified delphi process

This study provides consensus-based recommendations for the use of low-dose oral minoxidil (LDOM) and topical minoxidil in managing male and female pattern hair loss (MPHL and FPHL) in hair transplant patients. An international panel of hair transplant surgeons used a modified Delphi process to agree on guidelines, including checking body weight and blood pressure before starting LDOM. Recommended starting doses are 1.25–2.5 mg/day for MPHL and 0.625–1.25 mg/day for FPHL, with maximum doses of 5 mg and 2.5 mg, respectively. Clinical response is expected within 4–6 months, and treatment can continue long-term if effective. LDOM can be taken 1–3 days post-surgery, while topical minoxidil can be applied 7–14 days after transplant. Minoxidil is effective on the frontal scalp and vertex but should be avoided during pregnancy and breastfeeding. These guidelines aim to standardize the integration of LDOM and topical minoxidil in hair transplant care.