Minoxidil is a medication that is primarily used to treat hair loss. It is available in topical solution and foam formulations that are applied directly to the scalp. Minoxidil works by increasing blood flow to the hair follicles, which can improve hair growth. Minoxidil was originally developed as a medication to treat high blood pressure, but it was found to promote hair growth. It was later approved by the FDA for the treatment of male and female pattern baldness. Minoxidil is typically applied twice a day to the scalp. It may take several months of consistent use before any noticeable hair growth occurs, and the medication must be continued to maintain the results.
Now no need to wait for long periods to see whether you are a responder or not to minoxidil. Trichogene an Indian-based startup company introduced a wonderful test that is Minoxidil Response Test (MRT) to screen responders from nonresponders by using a simple buccal swab saliva sample. Trichogene MRT is based on pharmacogenetic analysis. SULT1A1 gene produces a key enzyme sulphotransferase that converts inactive minoxidil into active minoxidil sulphate. People with low sulphotransferase cannot convert minoxidil into its active form.
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Trichogene MRT can detect sulphotransferase levels based on gene mutations present in SULT1A1 gene. This report helps doctors to provide more precise hair loss treatment. Founders of Trichogene Dr.M. Sai babu and Mohd. Rizwan Younus said that MRT is introduced with the aim to provide precision treatment for hair loss based on an advanced pharmacogenetics approach instead of trial and error and also MRT saves a lot of time and money.