Therapeutic implications of topical cetirizine 1% in treatment of male androgenetic alopecia: A case-controlled study

Abstract

Background: Androgenetic alopecia (AGA) is the most common form of alopecia in men. Cetirizine, a second-generation H1 blocker, is known for its anti-inflammatory properties and its ability to decrease prostaglandin D2 (PGD2) production. Aim: To evaluate the efficacy and tolerability of topical cetirizine in male patients with AGA. Methods: Two groups of 30 patients each (healthy males aged between 22 and 55 years) with different grades of AGA classified according to the Hamilton-Norwood classification were recruited for this study. Group A subjects applied 1 mL of 1% topical cetirizine daily, while group B subjects served as controls and were instructed to apply 1 mL of a placebo solution for 6 months. Results: Dermoscopic assessment revealed significantly higher hair regrowth among the cetirizine-treated group (P