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Topical Methotrexate vs Minoxidil for Localized Alopecia Areata
Sponsor: Jinnah Postgraduate Medical Centre
Summary
Alopecia areata is an autoimmune disorder characterized by well-defined, non-scarring patches of hair loss on the scalp and other hair-bearing areas. Although several treatment options are available, there is no universally accepted standard therapy, and treatment responses vary widely among patients. Minoxidil is commonly used for hair regrowth due to its ability to stimulate hair follicles and prolong the anagen phase of the hair cycle. Methotrexate, an immunosuppressive agent traditionally used in inflammatory and autoimmune diseases, has also been explored as a potential treatment for alopecia areata because of its ability to suppress immune-mediated follicular damage. This randomized controlled trial aims to compare the efficacy and safety of topical methotrexate 1% gel versus minoxidil 5% spray in patients with localized alopecia areata. Eligible participants will be randomly assigned to receive either topical methotrexate gel or minoxidil spray and will be followed for 24 weeks. Treatment response will be assessed using the Severity of Alopecia Tool (SALT) score. The findings of this study may help identify an effective therapeutic option for patients with localized alopecia areata and contribute to improving clinical management strategies for this condition.
Official title: Comparative Study Between Topical Methotrexate 1% Gel and Minoxidil 5% Spray in the Treatment of Localized Alopecia Areata: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Key Details
Gender
All
Age Range
18 Years - 50 Years
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Enrollment
268
Start Date
2026-03-15
Completion Date
2026-09-15
Last Updated
2026-03-10
Healthy Volunteers
No
Conditions
Interventions
Methotrexate 1% Topical Gel
Topical methotrexate 1% gel will be applied to the affected areas of the scalp twice daily for a duration of 24 weeks. Methotrexate acts as an immunomodulatory agent that suppresses autoimmune inflammation directed against hair follicles in alopecia areata.
Minoxidil 5% Topical Spray
Minoxidil 5% spray will be applied to the affected areas of the scalp twice daily for 24 weeks. Minoxidil promotes hair regrowth by enhancing follicular blood flow, prolonging the anagen phase of the hair cycle, and stimulating hair follicle activity.