Topical 2-Deoxy-D-ribose Hydrogel Versus Minoxidil 5% Solution for Androgenetic Alopecia

Androgenetic alopecia is a common form of hair loss that can affect quality of life. This randomized controlled trial aims to evaluate the efficacy and safety of topical 2-Deoxy-D-ribose (2dDR) hydrogel compared with topical minoxidil 5% solution in the treatment of mild to moderate androgenetic alopecia in adults aged 18 to 50 years. Sixty participants will be randomized into 2 treatment groups. The 2dDR group will apply 1 gram of topical 2dDR hydrogel once daily to the affected scalp areas for 6 months. The minoxidil group will apply topical minoxidil 5% solution to the affected scalp areas for 6 months according to sex-specific dosing in the protocol.

Participants will undergo clinical assessment, trichoscopic evaluation, and standardized scalp photography at baseline, Week 12, and Week 24. The study will also assess tissue vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) levels using scalp biopsy specimens obtained at baseline and after 3 months of treatment in both groups. Safety will be evaluated through adverse event monitoring and clinical scalp examination during follow-up visits.