FAQs about Pyrilutamide: Answering Common Questions

Hair loss is a common concern that affects a significant number of individuals worldwide. Whether caused by genetic predisposition, hormonal changes, or underlying health conditions, the impact on self-esteem and confidence is deeper than you might think. According to one of the UK's prominent hair loss clinics, 40% of women and a third of men aged over 25 experience challenges with hair loss. This percentage rises to 70% in men aged 70 or older as hair loss generally increases with age. Remarkably, 39% of men ultimately experience complete hair loss. 

In most cases, hair loss is caused by a condition called pattern baldness (androgenetic alopecia). As an effective solution to this problem, Pyrilutamide has gained interest. In this blog, we will talk about the frequently asked questions surrounding Pyrilutamide, like its uses, safety, and various aspects to provide a comprehensive understanding for those seeking solutions to hair loss. 

What is Pyrilutamide? 

Pyrilutamide, also known as KX-826, is a medication developed by Kintor Pharmaceutical Limited to help with hair loss, specifically a type called androgenetic alopecia, commonly known as male-pattern baldness or female-pattern baldness, is a hereditary condition that causes hair thinning and baldness. It is the most prevalent form of hair loss that affects both men and women, albeit with different patterns. 

Pyrilutamide has passed the second stage of testing in men in China and is currently being studied for both men and women in China, as well as men in the United States. In addition to its use for hair loss, Kintor is looking into whether pyrilutamide can also be a treatment for acne. While it's still in the early stages of testing in the United States for acne, it has already started more advanced testing (phase II clinical trials) in China. This means they are checking if it works and is safe for these uses.

Pyrilutamide is primarily used for treating conditions that are influenced by androgens, such as prostate cancer and hirsutism. However, it has piqued interest in the field of dermatology for its potential role in combating hair loss. By inhibiting the effects of androgens on hair follicles, Pyrilutamide offers a unique approach to addressing the root causes of hair thinning and pattern baldness.

Notable Characteristics and Properties

Pyrilutamide is characterized by its anti-androgenic properties, meaning it counteracts the effects of androgens, particularly dihydrotestosterone (DHT), which is implicated in hair loss. Essentially, it inhibits the effects of androgen on hair follicles by interfering with androgen receptors. This distinctive feature positions Pyrilutamide an effective treatment for hair loss.

Common Questions About Pyrilutamide

Is Pyrilutamide Safe?

When considering the use of any medication, safety is the main concern. Pyrilutamide is generally well-tolerated and safe, however, in its role as an anti-androgen, it comes with its own set of safety considerations and precautions.

Safety Concerns:

• Hormonal Interference: Pyrilutamide works by interfering with androgen receptors, which might have hormonal implications. Individuals with hormonal disorders or those undergoing hormone replacement therapies should exercise caution and consult their healthcare provider.

• Potential Side Effects: Like any medication, Pyrilutamide may have side effects. These can include gastrointestinal issues, fatigue, and changes in liver function. Monitoring for these effects is very important during the course of treatment.

• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Pregnant or breastfeeding individuals should avoid Pyrilutamide due to potential risks to the developing fetus or nursing infant. Adequate contraception is often advised for those of reproductive age.

Precautions:

• Medical Supervision: Pyrilutamide should only be used under the supervision of a qualified healthcare professional. Regular check-ups and monitoring of liver function may be recommended to ensure its safe use.

• Dosage Adherence: Adhering strictly to the prescribed dosage is essential. Altering the dosage without medical guidance can lead to unintended consequences and compromise safety.

Existing studies on Pyrilutamide's safety profile are limited, and the compound is not universally accepted or approved for certain uses. Research is ongoing to comprehensively understand its potential benefits and risks.

What Conditions Is Pyrilutamide Used For?

Pyrilutamide, primarily recognized as an anti-androgen, finds application in the management of several medical conditions. 

Prescribed Uses:

• Prostate Cancer: Pyrilutamide has a well-established role in the treatment of prostate cancer. By antagonizing androgen receptors, it helps impede the growth of cancer cells dependent on androgen hormones.

• Hirsutism: In cases of excessive hair growth in women (hirsutism) associated with androgen excess, Pyrilutamide may be prescribed to mitigate this symptom by modulating androgen activity.

Off-Label Uses:

• Androgenetic Alopecia (Hair Loss): While not universally accepted or approved for this purpose, Pyrilutamide has garnered attention in the dermatological field for its potential in addressing androgenetic alopecia. Research is ongoing to explore its efficacy in promoting hair growth and preventing further hair loss.

• Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS): Some clinicians may consider Pyrilutamide as an off-label option for managing symptoms of PCOS, such as hirsutism and acne, due to its anti-androgenic properties.

• Endocrine Disorders: Pyrilutamide's ability to modulate androgen activity makes it a subject of interest in various endocrine disorders where hormonal imbalances play a role.

How Does Pyrilutamide Work?

Pyrilutamide works by blocking androgens, specifically dihydrotestosterone (DHT), from binding to hair follicle receptors. This prevents the negative effects of androgens on hair follicles, such as miniaturization and eventual hair loss.

Unlike commonly used 5-alpha reductase inhibitors like finasteride and dutasteride, which block the conversion of testosterone to DHT, pyrilutamide is a topical anti-androgen. Clinical trials indicate that it doesn't reduce overall androgen levels in the body, potentially avoiding side effects commonly associated with oral 5-alpha reductase inhibitors, such as decreased libido, erectile dysfunction, and depression.

How to Use Pyrilutamide?

Pyrilutamide was tested at different concentrations: 2.5 milligrams (0.25% concentration) and 5 milligrams (0.5% concentration).

Three application options:

• Pyrilutamide 2.5 milligrams (0.25% concentration) applied once daily.
• Pyrilutamide 5 milligrams (0.5% concentration) applied once daily.
• Pyrilutamide 5 milligrams (0.5% concentration) applied twice daily.

Study Findings and Recommended Dosage:

• The clinical trial results demonstrated the best improvements in hair growth with the application of 0.5% Pyrilutamide twice a day.
• This dosage increased hair count by 10 hairs per cm² from baseline after 24 weeks of treatment, a statistically significant improvement.
• No serious adverse events were reported at this dosage.

Administration:

• Pyrilutamide is typically applied topically, meaning it is administered directly to the skin.
• In the successful trial, the application was focused on the scalp to target the specific area affected by androgenic alopecia.

Note: The dosage and application frequency may vary based on individual circumstances, and consultation with healthcare professionals is essential to ensure safe and effective use.

What is the Latest Successful Result for Pyrilutamide Study?

As of the latest information available, in September 2021, Kintor reported successful results for the Chinese phase II clinical trial of pyrilutamide in men with androgenic alopecia (pattern hair loss). The trial demonstrated good efficacy and safety. However, these results have not been published in scientific journals; the only publicly accessible information is on Kintor's website, in internally created presentations, and in conference results.

The most detailed clinical trial results for pyrilutamide are from press releases and a poster presented at the Annual Meeting of the Chinese Hair Research Society sponsored by the Chinese Society of Dermatology. The trial involved 120 Chinese men with moderate pattern hair loss symptoms, and three different application options were tested:

• Pyrilutamide 2.5 milligrams (0.25% concentration) applied twice daily.
• Pyrilutamide 5 milligrams (0.5% concentration) applied once daily.
• Pyrilutamide 5 milligrams (0.5% concentration) applied twice daily.

According to the poster presentation, the application of 5 milligrams of pyrilutamide twice a day resulted in the most significant improvements in hair growth, increasing hair count by 22.73 hairs per cm² after 24 weeks of treatment. In comparison, the placebo group's hair count increased by 15.34 hairs per cm² with the twice-daily 0.5% concentration of pyrilutamide.

Subsequent press releases from Kintor have highlighted positive results from its female phase II pyrilutamide clinical trial and its American phase II pyrilutamide trial for male pattern hair loss.

Potential Side Effects

The latest clinical trial results for pyrilutamide indicate positive safety outcomes with no serious adverse reactions associated with Kintor's hair loss drug. Users reported only mild side effects, including issues like itchy, dry skin, redness and irritation, and contact dermatitis.

These safety findings align with results from the previous Phase I/Ib clinical trial for pyrilutamide, where all reported side effects were related to contact dermatitis. It's uncertain whether this side effect is a result of the drug itself or the solution used to deliver it – a common consideration with other topical medications like liquid minoxidil.

Severity and Duration:

• The reported side effects of Pyrilutamide are generally mild and manageable.
• Severity may vary between individuals, and it's important to communicate any concerns with healthcare providers.
• Many side effects, such as gastrointestinal discomfort and fatigue, often diminish over time as the body adjusts to the medication.

When to Seek Medical Attention

While the reported side effects are generally mild, individuals using Pyrilutamide should be vigilant and seek medical attention if they experience:

• Severe or Persistent Symptoms: Any side effects that are severe, persistent, or worsening over time should prompt immediate medical attention.
• Signs of Liver Issues: Symptoms such as jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes), dark urine, or persistent abdominal pain warrant urgent medical evaluation, as they may indicate liver-related complications.
• Allergic Reactions: Any signs of an allergic reaction, including rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, or difficulty breathing, require immediate medical attention.
• Unusual Symptoms: Any unexpected or unusual symptoms not mentioned in the common side effects list should be discussed with a healthcare provider.

It's essential for individuals using Pyrilutamide to maintain open communication with their healthcare team. Regular check-ups and monitoring can help detect and manage any side effects promptly, ensuring the safe and effective use of this medication in the pursuit of addressing androgenic alopecia or other conditions for which it may be prescribed.

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

The use of Pyrilutamide during pregnancy raises significant concerns. This medication, with its anti-androgenic properties, may have implications for fetal development.  If there is a desire to become pregnant, it is advisable to discuss a suitable timeframe for discontinuing Pyrilutamide with a healthcare professional. Planning the discontinuation of the medication in consultation with a healthcare provider is essential to minimize potential risks.

The potential for teratogenic effects (harm to the developing fetus) raises caution. Pyrilutamide should be avoided during pregnancy unless the potential benefits clearly outweigh the risks, a determination that should be made in consultation with a healthcare provider.

Breastfeeding

Concerns related to Pyrilutamide use extend to breastfeeding mothers. Pyrilutamide is not recommended for use during breastfeeding due to the lack of sufficient data on its excretion in breast milk and potential effects on the nursing infant.

Given the medication's properties and the potential for systemic absorption, there is a risk of Pyrilutamide being transferred to breast milk. This could expose the infant to the drug, and its effects on infants are not well-established.

Conclusion

Pyrilutamide shows promise for hair loss. The recent successful trials have given us hope. However, we've also highlighted the importance of being cautious. Like any medicine, Pyrilutamide comes with considerations. We've talked about potential side effects and the need for special care during pregnancy and breastfeeding.

And if you are planning to try it, don't forget to choose MV Supplement as your reliable supplier. We deliver it to your doorstep!