Bimatoprost (Latisse) for treating alopecia areata: New study

New study supports use of bimatoprost for alopecia areata 

Bimaprost is FDA approved for treating glaucoma. It's also FDA approved for treating thin eyelashes in those with sparse eyelashes, and in this case is known popularly as Latisse. The use of bimatoprost in treating alopecia areata has only recently been investigated. Studies have suggested a role in treating eyelash loss in those with alopecia areata. 

Bimatoprost in Treating Scalp Loss

A new study, published in Paediatric Dermatology, supports the use of bimatoprost in treating scalp hair loss in patients with alopecia areata. The authors described a 9 year old girl with alopecia areata who had been treated with steroid injections, topical steroids and minoxidil. Despite these treatments, she did not experience regrowth. A decision was made to initiate treatment with bimatoprost solution one drop twice daily on the patches of hair loss. 

Within one month the patient experienced the first signs of regrowth and by 7 months the patient had regrown her hair and was able to stop the bimatoprost. 

Reference

Li and Antaya. Successful Treatment of Pediatric Alopecia Areata of the Scalp Using Topical Bimatoprost. Pediatr Dermatol. 2016