Are supplements and vitamins effective in treating androgenetic alopecia?
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.12873/452novaisKeywords:
Alopecia androgenética, suplementos, tratamientoAbstract
Introduction: Androgenetic alopecia is the most common form of hair loss in both sexes. While traditional treatments include minoxidil and 5α-reductase inhibitors, there is growing interest in natural approaches, including supplements and vitamins.
Objectives: Evaluate the available scientific evidence on supplements and their mechanisms of action, clinical efficacy, adverse effects, and respective grade of recommendation (Serenoa repens, Pygeum africanum, ketoconazole, vitamin D, zinc, and biotin) in the treatment of OAG in healthy adults.
Materials and Methods: A narrative review was conducted in the PubMed, MedLine, and Google Scholar databases, including articles published in the last 20 years and written in Portuguese, English, French, or Italian. The selection followed the PRISMA criteria, and the quality of evidence was assessed according to the SORT classification.
Results: The supplements investigated were: Serenoa repens and Pygeum africanum—with 5α-reductase inhibitors and potential to improve hair density; ketoconazole, with an adjuvant effect when used in combination; zinc and vitamin D, effective only in cases of proven deficiency; and biotin, indicated exclusively for cases of nutritional deficiency.
Discussion: Serenoa repens presents the strongest evidence and is recommended as monotherapy. Pygeum africanum and ketoconazole show limited benefit, mainly as adjuvants. The remaining supplements have not demonstrated efficacy in individuals without deficiency.
Conclusions: Serenoa repens is recommended as monotherapy for the treatment of androgenetic alopecia, and topical ketoconazole can be considered a complementary option. The other supplements evaluated are not recommended in this population. The prescription of these supplements should be cautious, individualized, and always supported by the available evidence. The lack of robust clinical studies reinforces the need for future research to validate the efficacy and safety of these interventions in medical practice.
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