Can Alopecia Areata Be Cured?
Alopecia areata cannot be cured; however, it can be treated and hair can grow back.In many cases, alopecia areata is treated with drugs that are used for other conditions. Treatment options for alopecia areata include: • Corticosteroids: Anti-inflammatory drugs that are prescribed for autoimmune diseases. Corticosteroids can be given as an injection into the scalp or other areas, orally (as a pill), or applied topically (rubbed into the skin) as an ointment, cream, or foam. Response to therapy may be gradual. • Rogaine (minoxidil): This topical drug is already used as a treatment for pattern baldness. It usually takes about 12 weeks of treatment with Rogaine before hair begins to grow. Results can be disappointing. Other drugs that are used for alopecia areata with varying degrees of effectiveness include medications used to treat psoriasis and topical sensitizers (drugs that are applied to the skin and cause an allergic reaction that can cause hair growth).
