Andrew W. Brotman, MD Executive Vice President and Vice Dean for Clinical Affairs and Strategy, Chief Clinical Officer | NYU Langone Hassenfeld Children's Hospital
Andrew W. Brotman, MD Executive Vice President and Vice Dean for Clinical Affairs and Strategy, Chief Clinical Officer | NYU Langone Hassenfeld Children's Hospital
Researchers at NYU Langone Health have found that low doses of doxycycline, a common antibiotic and anti-inflammatory drug, are as effective as higher doses in treating lymphocytic scarring alopecia. This rare skin condition causes hair loss due to the immune system attacking hair follicles. The study suggests that lower doses may reduce side effects such as nausea and vomiting.
The study involved 241 participants with various forms of lymphocytic scarring alopecia. It compared the effectiveness of low (20 milligrams twice daily) and high (up to 100 milligrams twice daily) doses of doxycycline. Researchers found no significant difference between the two groups regarding scalp inflammation, patients' perception of hair loss severity, or clinical measurements like hair density.
"Physicians can prescribe lower doses without compromising efficacy," said Carli Needle, BA, co-lead author and medical student at NYU Grossman School of Medicine. Lower doses might also protect gut health by preserving beneficial bacteria.
The research team analyzed data from electronic medical records at NYU Langone Health from 2009 to 2023. Approximately 27% were on low-dose regimens while nearly 73% received traditional high-dose treatments. The analysis excluded other medications like minoxidil.
Reducing doxycycline dosage could help combat antibiotic resistance, according to Anna Brinks, BA, another co-lead author and medical student at NYU Grossman School of Medicine. "Our results offer another avenue for healthcare providers," she said.
Kristen Lo Sicco, MD, co-senior author and associate professor at NYU Grossman School of Medicine, highlighted the psychological impact of alopecia: "Alopecia can have a devastating effect on self-image." Future studies will involve more diverse groups and explore triggers for lymphocytic scarring alopecia.
The study was funded by NYU Langone Health. Other contributors include Akshay Pulavarty, MD; Caitlin Kearney; Ambika Nohria; Deesha Desai; and Jerry Shapiro.
NYU Langone Health is known for its quality care across multiple locations and has been ranked highly by Vizient Inc. and U.S. News & World Report for its clinical specialties.
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