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Side effect from osteoporosis drug uncovers 'cure' for baldness

Baldness could become a thing of the past, thanks to the unusual side effect of an osteoporosis drug.

Tests of a drug designed to treat brittle bone disease saw the agent promote hair growth.

The discovery, still to be tested in clinical trials, could open up a whole new approach to treating hair loss in both men and women, researchers believe.

The compound, known as WAY-316606, in the drug targeted a protein that acts as a blocker for hair growth and plays a key role in baldness.

In tests, follicles donated by more than 40 patients undergoing hair transplant surgery were treated with the osteoporosis drug for six days.

The follicles quickly went into the active "anagen" phase of hair growth, and began sprouting hair.

After two days, the measured rate of hair growth increased significantly in the treated follicles.

Dr Nathan Hawkshaw, lead scientist on the study at the University of Manchester, said: "The fact this new agent, which had never even been considered in a hair loss context, promotes human hair growth is exciting because of its translational potential.

"It could one day make a real difference to people who suffer from hair loss.

"Clearly though, a clinical trial is required next to tell us whether this drug or similar compounds are both effective and safe in hair loss patients," he cautioned.

Only two drugs, minoxidil and finasteride, are currently available for the treatment of male pattern baldness - the classic type of receding hair-line hair loss in men.

Both have moderate side effects and users are often disappointed by the results.

Patients can also opt for transplantation surgery.