Oral minoxidil 2.5 mg versus 5 mg for treatment of male androgenetic alopecia: a double-blind randomized clinical trial

This double-blind randomized clinical trial compared the efficacy, safety, and tolerability of oral minoxidil (OM) at doses of 2.5 mg and 5 mg for treating male androgenetic alopecia (AGA) over 24 weeks. The study involved 100 male participants aged 25 to 55 years, with 92 completing the trial. Results showed no significant difference in the increase of non-vellus hair density between the two groups, with a mean difference of 0.9 threads/cm² (p = 0.403). Photographic analysis and self-assessment indicated similar improvements in both groups. The 5 mg dose did not prove superior to the 2.5 mg dose. Hypertrichosis was the most common side effect, occurring in 62% of the 2.5 mg group and 78% of the 5 mg group. Pedal edema and dizziness were more frequent in the 5 mg group. Overall, OM was safe and well-tolerated, but the higher dose did not offer additional benefits.