New Oral Hair Loss Drug Shows Promise in Phase 3 Study

Men with pattern hair loss saw increased hair coverage in a recent clinical trial of a new minoxidil formulation.

Updated on Oct. 21, 2026 in Men’s Health

Gouache-painted illustration of a single pharmaceutical capsule resting on a textured surface, representing new clinical hair loss research. — Veradermics reported that its experimental oral drug, VDPHL01, significantly increased hair counts in a phase 3 study of 500 men. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

Live Poll

Would you consider using new pharmaceutical treatments for hair loss if they become available?

Veradermics reported that its experimental oral hair loss drug, VDPHL01, significantly increased hair counts in a phase 3 study of over 500 men. The extended-release minoxidil formulation is being developed to address limitations in current treatment options.

Why it matters

This development is significant because the drug aims to offer an effective oral alternative for men with pattern hair loss while minimizing potential cardiac toxicity risks associated with standard minoxidil. The results provide a new clinical data point for those managing hair loss.

In a phase 3 trial of over 500 men, participants taking the oral treatment twice daily saw a 36.4 hairs/cm² increase in target area hair count, compared to a 6.6 hairs/cm² increase in the placebo group. These findings represent preliminary data from the study.

The players

Veradermics

A pharmaceutical company currently focused on developing treatments for hair loss.

The details

VDPHL01 is an oral extended-release formulation designed to modulate how minoxidil, first approved by the FDA in 1979, is delivered to the body. By altering the release profile, the drug aims to improve regrowth potential while mitigating cardiac safety risks. The trial utilized the target area hair count metric and the Androgenetic Alopecia Impact Rating Scale to evaluate hair coverage over six months.

October 19, 2026: Veradermics released the topline data for study 304.
April 2026: The company announced the results for study 302.

Health Landscape

This development follows a long history of utilizing oral minoxidil, originally approved in 1979, for off-label or specialized dermatological needs. It reflects an industry-wide effort to refine existing compounds to address the growing hair loss treatment market.

While these results show potential, the treatment remains experimental and is not yet available for clinical use. It is worth discussing any concerns about pattern hair loss or current treatment limitations with your doctor.

The takeaway

The study suggests that an extended-release version of minoxidil may provide a new pathway for men managing pattern hair loss. Always consult your physician regarding the safety of hair loss treatments, especially if you have a history of heart health concerns.