Category Archives: Minoxidil

Latanoprost, Minoxidil, Topical Finasteride, Triple Hair

Triple Hair Therapy-07 Phase 3 Clinical Trials Soon

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Triple Hair is a Canadian biotechnology company that is developing new topical treatments for men and women who suffer from androgenic alopecia. A number of people have mentioned this company in the comments in recent years.

Triple Hair
Triple Hair Logo.

Triple Hair: Therapy-07 for Hair Growth

Triple Hair’s main product is a prescription triple combination topical called Therapy-07. It contains minoxidil, finasteride and latanoprost (a prostaglandin F2α analog). It is currently sold via Texas-based Pharmacy Solutions.

When I first read about Therapy-07, while it seemed interesting, it did not sound like anything special to me. The reason is because we are now spoiled for choice when it comes to online purchase options of topical finasteride containing hair loss products that also include minoxidil and other key ingredients.

  • In fact HairStim (US) already makes a product that contains minoxidil, finasteride and latanoprost. As well as other combinations that include spironolactone and resveratrol.
  • Another US-based company named Aneira Pharma is working a product that includes latanoprost, minoxidil and various other ingredients.
  • Dermaliq (US) is preparing for Phase clinical trials for its prostaglandin F2α analogue topical hair growth product DLQ01 that is thought to contain latanoprost.

Phase 3 Clinical Trial Approvals in Europe and Canada

However, today I changed my mind slightly after reader “John Doe” e-mailed me to notify that Triple Hair has just received EMA approval to start phase III clinical trials for its Therapy-07 prescription drug in Europe.

Do note that in June 2023, Triple Hair already received approval to begin phase III clinical trials in Canada. At the time, company CEO Jean-Philippe Gravel said that they were also awaiting similar approvals in the US and Europe. As soon as all approvals are obtained they planned to begin the final trials.

So far, among the many companies selling topical finasteride for hair loss, only Almirall (Spain) has gone through the entire three stage clinical trial process. The expenses to go through three trials for a topical hair loss porduct is generally not justifiable to investors. Especially with key ingredients such as finasteride and minoxidil.

Therapy-16

Triple Hair also sells an over-the-counter hair loss product called Therapy-16. For men, it is sold via the brand name Rizn. It is a drug-free once a day formula that is made with natural ingredients. They sell a RIZN Hair Density Spray and RIZN Hair Complex pills. The woman’s Therapy-16 Hair Densifying Spray product goes by the brand name Plenty Natural. Is contains Japanese knotweed, melatonin and peasprout extracts.

Interestingly, the company claims that these products reduce Prostaglandin D2 (PGD2) levels, which aid hair growth. I discussed the positive impact of decreasing PGD2 on hair growth in several posts in the past. However, I am skeptical about how big an impact natural products can have on scalp PGD2 levels.

Finasteride, Minoxidil, Shedding

Finasteride and Minoxidil Shedding is Normal

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Hair Shedding Minoxidil Finasteride
Hair Shedding from Minoxidil and Finasteride.

Finasteride and minoxidil are the only two medications that are FDA approved for the treatment of hair loss.

Both work through different mechanisms of actions, and both can also cause unexpected temporary hair shedding episodes.

Finasteride and Minoxidil Hair Shedding

  1. Finasteride:
    • Mechanism of Action: Finasteride (Propecia brand name) is an oral medication that belongs to the class of drugs known as 5-alpha-reductase inhibitors. It works by inhibiting the action of the enzyme 5-alpha-reductase, which converts testosterone into dihydrotestosterone (DHT). DHT is implicated in the miniaturization of hair follicles in individuals who are genetically predisposed to androgenetic alopecia (AGA — aka male pattern baldness). Note that topical finasteride is also becoming very popular.
    • Hair Shedding: Some users may experience an initial increase in hair shedding during the first few months of finasteride treatment. This phenomenon (almost like telogen effluvium) is thought to occur as the drug affects the hair growth cycle.  In particular, the anagen growth phase is increased. Shedding is usually temporary, and most individuals observe regrowth and stabilization of hair loss after this initial phase.
  2. Minoxidil:
    • Mechanism of Action: Minoxidil (Rogaine brand name) is a topical medication that is applied directly to the scalp. While its exact mechanism of action is not fully understood, it is believed to promote blood flow to the hair follicles. This in turn prolongs the anagen (growth) phase of the hair cycle, increasing follicle length and thickness. Higher strength doses of minoxidil 10% and 15% are also available with prescription. Note that oral minoxidil is also becoming very popular.
    • Hair Shedding: Similar to finasteride, some users may experience an initial increase in hair shedding when starting minoxidil treatment. This shed phase is temporary and is often considered a sign that the medication is beginning to take effect. It is followed by a period of regrowth and stabilization of hair loss.

Summary

  • Shedding with both finasteride and minoxidil is usually transient and is not an indication that the treatment is ineffective.
  • These medications require consistent and long-term use to realize their benefits. Do not get scared with the temporary increase in hair fall.
  • It is crucial to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any hair loss treatment to determine the most suitable approach. And to address any potential side effects or contraindications.