A US federal judge ruled that using patients' stem cells for medical treatments is not under FDAjurisdiction, potentially speeding up development of stem cell-based hair loss therapies. Some users are optimistic about increased research and development, while others express skepticism about the ruling's impact on safety and efficacy standards.
A user discovered their hair regrowth progress pictures were used in a scam promoting a fake "elixir." The user clarified that their actual results came from using finasteride and minoxidil for three months.
A 17-year-old has been using topical minoxidil and finasteride for hair loss but is advised by a dermatologist to taper off due to age concerns. Other users suggest continuing minoxidil but stopping finasteride until at least 18, and consulting a specialized pediatric dermatologist.
Finasteride users may have an increased risk of depression, anxiety, and suicidal thoughts, though some attribute these issues to hair loss itself. The link between finasteride and mental health effects is debated, with varying user experiences.
The FDA policy change may speed up approval for hair loss drugs like PP405, VDPHL-01, and Breezula by potentially eliminating the need for a second confirmatory Phase 3 trial. Approval timelines could be as early as 2028 for some treatments if Phase 3 results are strong.