Comparison of the Efficacy and Safety of Topical 5% Minoxidil Solution Alone and in Combination with 0.05% Betamethasone Dipropionate Cream in the Treatment of Alopecia Areata

Background: Alopecia Areata (AA) is a fairly common skin problem, accounting for approximately 2% of new derma-tological outpatients worldwide. There is a dire need for an innovative approach in the treatment of this disorder.Objective: Our objective was to assess the efficacy and safety of topical 5% minoxidil solution alone and in combination with 0.05% betamethasone dipropionate cream in the treatment of alopecia areata.Method: Fifty patients with alopecia areata, ages ranging from 18 to 55 years, were enrolled in the study. They were randomly divided into two groups, each having 25 patients. The patients in group A, were advised to apply 5% minoxidil solution, twice daily for a period of three months. Whereas the patients of group B, were advised to apply 5% minoxidil solution followed by, 30-60 minutes later, the application of 0.05% betamethasone dipropionate cream. Patients of both groups applied the medicines for a period of three months after which they were followed up for the next three months. The efficacy of the drugs was assessed on the basis of percentage re-growth of hair as: Excellent ( 90%), Good (70 – 90%), Satisfactory (50-69%) and Poor ( 50%). The safety of treatment administered was assessed on the basis of local or systemic side effects of the drugs. Results: Out of 50 evaluable patients, there were 39 males and 11 females. Minoxidil 5% alone showed an excellent result in 3 (12%) patients, a good response in 10 (40%) and poor in 12 (48%) patients. Minoxidil 5% plus Betamethasone diapro-pionate cream revealed an excellent response in 11 (44%) patients, good in 9 (36%) and poor in 5 (20%) cases. Comparison of hair re-growth count in the bald patches over a 24 weeks period, showed both treatments to be effective. The combination therapy, however, seemed to be more effective in the re-growth of hair at week 12 and 24. Both treatments were well tolerated.Conclusions: Both treatments are effective and safe over a 12 weeks period. However, the combination therapy is more effective than minoxidil solution alone in the treatment of alopecia areata.