‘Werewolf Syndrome’, a rare disease, has unexpectedly come to the fore again in recent years. Research conducted in Spain revealed that this syndrome, which manifests itself with excessive hair growth in babies, is linked to hair loss medications containing minoxidil used by parents.
minoxidil, usually male type a substance used to treat hair loss These new cases draw attention to the negative effects of environmental factors and medications on babies. So, what exactly are the causes of this syndrome and what precautions should be taken? Here are the details…
Minoxidil and Werewolf Syndrome
Research conducted in Spain shows that the disease seen in newborn babies ‘Werewolf Syndrome’ revealed that the cases may be linked to the hair loss medications used by the parents. Navarra Pharmacovigilance Center, nationwide This syndrome has been seen in 11 babies in the last year. explained. In all cases, it was determined that the parents used hair loss sprays containing minoxidil.
Werewolf Syndrome, It is a rare disease that manifests itself with abnormal and excessive hair growth all over the body. In one case recorded in Spain, a breastfed baby showed excessive hair growth for two months. In the examination following this situation, it was determined that the father used minoxidil spray for the treatment of androgenic alopecia. It was reported that the baby’s hair growth decreased after the use of the drug was discontinued.
Dermatology Experts stated that Werewolf Syndrome can be triggered not only by environmental factors but also by genetic factors. It was emphasized that this syndrome may be congenital or may be triggered by external factors (for example, drugs such as minoxidil). It was also said that medications used by the mother during pregnancy or hormone-secreting diseases could also trigger this condition.
How Can Parental Drug Use Affect Babies?
Cases in Spain revealed that parents’ unconscious use of minoxidil-containing medications could have negative effects on babies. Especially medicines in spray form Pointing out that there is a risk of spreading to the environment, experts stated that parents should wear gloves when using such drugs and wash their hands thoroughly after application. It was also reminded that products such as hormonal drugs and minoxidil should only be used under the supervision of a doctor.
It is noteworthy that hypertrichosis cases, which were rare in the past, have increased in recent years. In just one year, with less than 100 cases recorded worldwide by 2023 11 new cases in Spain detected. Experts think that this increase is linked to drug use and environmental factors. While the effect of environmental factors stands out in the cases in Spain, a case in Malaysia is explained by genetic reasons.
Werewolf Syndrome: Symptoms and Treatment Methods
Werewolf Syndrome manifests itself with the growth of dark and thick hair on the body. In some cases, additional symptoms such as enlargement of the gums (gingival hyperplasia) may also be observed. It was stated that there is no definitive treatment for this congenital syndrome. However, hair can be reduced by shaving or using methods such as epilation.
In cases that develop due to environmental reasons, triggering factors must be eliminated. After stopping the use of medications such as minoxidil, hair growth may decrease in some babies.
Minoxidil: Safe Use and Cautions
Minoxidil is widely used in the treatment of hair loss as an active ingredient approved by the American Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Offering it in spray and foam form makes it preferred by users. However, experts state that such drugs should only be used correctly and under the supervision of a doctor. Misuse can cause skin problems not only for babies but also for adults.
Experts give the following warnings to parents:
Use medications such as minoxidil only with a doctor’s advice.
Wear gloves and prevent environmental contamination during drug application.
Wash your hands thoroughly after using the medicine and limit contact with babies.
If you notice excessive hair growth in babies, consult a specialist immediately.
To join our WhatsApp group CLICK!
