Which works better for patchy hair loss: steroid injections or microneedling with steroid cream?
Official title: Comparative Effectiveness of Intralesional Injection of Triamcinolone Acetonide vs. Microneedling With Local Application of Triamcinolone Acetonide in the Treatment of Alopecia Areata
Run by Dow University of Health Sciences · NCT07926711 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This trial tests whether injecting triamcinolone into the skin or using microneedling with topical triamcinolone helps people with alopecia areata regrow hair more effectively.
Quick facts
| Phase | Phase 4 |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 276 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | Dow University of Health Sciences Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Karachi, Sindh) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | January 1, 2026 |
| Main results expected | December 2026 |
| Study ends | December 2026 |
| Registry record updated | November 9, 2026 |
| Trial ID | NCT07926711 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Ideal candidates are adults with alopecia areata affecting 25% or less of the scalp, disease duration up to 12 months, and no contraindicating conditions.
✕Probably not a fit
Individuals with extensive scalp involvement, active infections, or contraindications to triamcinolone may not benefit from these interventions.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
What this trial studies
This randomized, phase 4 trial compares two common treatments for alopecia areata: intralesional triamcinolone acetonide injections versus microneedling followed by topical triamcinolone acetonide. Participants with limited scalp involvement are assigned to one of the two treatment approaches and followed to assess hair regrowth and safety. Outcomes include efficacy in hair regrowth and the incidence of local or systemic side effects. The study is conducted at Dow University Hospital in Karachi and aims to provide comparative evidence on effectiveness and tolerability. Eligibility focuses on adults with 25 percent or less scalp involvement and disease duration up to 12 months.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the trial could clarify which treatment offers better hair regrowth with acceptable safety for people with limited alopecia areata.
How similar studies have gone: Previous studies have shown benefit with intralesional steroids and alternative methods like microneedling; direct head-to-head comparisons in randomized trials remain limited but have suggested potential differences in outcomes.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Male and female participants aged 18 years and above Clinically diagnosed alopecia areata involving 25 percent or less of the scalp surface area Disease duration of up to 12 months Willingness to participate in the study and provide written informed consent Exclusion Criteria: * Extensive alopecia areata involving more than 25 percent of the scalp, alopecia totalis, or alopecia universalis Scarring alopecia or active scalp infection History of keloid formation or abnormal wound healing Pregnant or lactating women Use of systemic or topical immunosuppressive therapy within the last 4 weeks Known hypersensitivity to triamcinolone acetonide or local anesthetics Presence of uncontrolled autoimmune disorders that may affect treatment response
Where it's running
-
Dow University Hospital, Ojha Campus
Karachi, Sindh, Pakistan Recruiting
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Dr Hafsa HAFSA, MBBS, FCPS (IN PROCESS)
- Email: hafsawaqas1997@gmail.com
- Phone: 92-332-38229341
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How to take part
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
- Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.