Already Available Prostaglandin D2 Inhibitors?
OK, here is my take on the latest happenings in the hair-loss debate…the recently reported topical inhibition of PGD2 and hair loss / re-growth.
OK, prostaglandins are both a GOOD and a BAD thing. You need some prostaglandins, but not others. Some prostaglandins are required for the inflammation associated with healing, while some are responsible for the negative effects of inflammation – mainly pain and the link in the chain that results in disease.
If prostaglandin D2 is indeed partially responsible for hair loss, then why not simply use a product that reduces or inhibits prostaglandin formation? These products do indeed exist. They are called COX-2 inhibitors, namely NSAIDS. However; all NSAIDS are not created equal.
One of the most potent, and selective COX-2 inhibitors is called Meloxicam, otherwise known as Mobic. It is an extremely effective pain reliever and anti-inflammatory. It’s anti-inflammatory properties are due to its inhibition of the cyclooxygenase-2 enzyme (COX-2). Since Meloxicam is soluble in methanol (think EverClear), why not simply put a few Mobic pills in ethanol for a few days, then simply apply it to the balding areas?
I do not claim to be a doctor, I do not even play one on TV. That right is reserved solely for Dr. Rassman, so I may be completely ignorant of the chemistry involved here.
Dr. Rassman, do you think this may be a viable approach to inhibit prostaglandin D2 topically? While I am pretty certain it could not cause harm, since it would not be absorbed systemically, would it be of any value as a topical PGD2 inhibitor?
As always, my deepest respect and thanks to you, Dr. Rassman.
While your insight is interesting, I do not think think the solution is that simple.
For argument’s sake, let’s say you dissolve Mobic in methanol and apply it to your sore back. Do you think it will relieve pain? It does not. Drugs don’t work this way. And I haven’t found any study that shows people who are on chronic pain medication like Mobic (that inhibit prostaglandins) have more hair growth or less hair loss.
The research on PGD2 is interesting, but it is only part of the big picture. I am sure that there will be research carried out.
I’m not a medical doctor however I am a chemist/ chemical engineer; regarding the PGD2 comment 1.) “Everclear” is not methanol it’s ethanol rather ethyl alcohol. Methyl = single carbon (-CH3) or take for instance Methane (CH4). Ethyl= two carbons (-CH2CH3) while this difference may seem trivial it is not. I am not pointing this out to try and sound arrogant or like a know it all (I don’t) I’m simply pointing this out because their biochem interactions and chemical kinetics are different (I.e., ethanol will get you drunk, while methanol even in small amounts can do severe damage to the optic nerves, lead to crystallization in the kidneys amongst other detrimental effects.) So while in theory some of the things you stated in the PGD2 comment were interesting please do not try a home remedy/ the solution you hypothesized, it can be potentially be very dangerous.
The bloke above (Bill Brasky) doesn’t know what he’s talking about. Do all NSAIDS block receptors for prostaglandin D2?? COX1 or COX2 (cyclo-oxygenase) inhibitors such as meloxicam are specific antagonists for COX1or 2(therefore reduce pain and inflammation). I doubt it has any infinity for the prostaglandin D2 receptor!! Sodium cromoglycate is the only thing that comes to my mind as a prostaglandin D2 antagonist – exists in allergy eye drops, asthma inhalers or as a prescribe oral anti-histimine for systemic allergies especially food allergies.
Bill BrasKy sorry to say this but you are wrong on Methanol, stop the scare mongering. All Lab scientist use methanol LC chromo grade 100% and they are not damaged as you suggested. Please try and be rational when you make assumptions as truth. Small amounts of methanol on you skin will not do you any harm at all. I’m sure not methanol, chronic consumption of any alcohol however can damage your limbic system of a period.
you guys should listen to Bill so you don’t kill yourself.
https://www.sciencelab.com/msds.php?msdsId=9927227
If it is lipophilic then you could put it in what is known as a PLOgel which is used in pharmacy compounding. PLO gel is just an oil/water emulsion that absorbs pretty rapidly