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RU-58841 (RU-58841 (PSK-3841))

Category: Hair Growth. Status: Research compound.

A non-steroidal topical anti-androgen that blocks DHT at the hair follicle receptor without systemic hormonal effects. Applied directly to the scalp, it competes with DHT for androgen receptor binding in follicular dermal papilla cells.

How it works

Non-steroidal androgen receptor antagonist with high binding affinity. Applied topically, penetrates to dermal papilla cells where it blocks DHT-AR complex formation, preventing transcription of hair-miniaturizing genes without systemic antiandrogen effects.

Key facts

  • Molecular weight: 369.34 Da
  • Half-life: ~1 hour (in skin/plasma); active at receptor for 8-12h
  • Bioavailability: Topical only - minimal systemic absorption
  • Storage: Powder: -20°C. Solution: refrigerate, use within 1-2 weeks.

Dosing overview

  • Typical dose: 50-100 mg in 1mL vehicle
  • Frequency: Daily application to scalp
  • Duration: Ongoing
  • Route: Topical (dissolved in ethanol/PG vehicle)

Reported benefits

  • Local anti-androgen (no systemic effects)
  • No sexual side effects
  • DHT blocking at follicle level
  • Can combine with oral finasteride
  • Fast-acting (visible in weeks)

Possible side effects

  • Scalp irritation
  • Dryness
  • Contact dermatitis (rare)
  • Unproven long-term safety
  • Research chemical status

Research

  • RU-58841 and hair growth in macaques (2019): Topical RU-58841 (5%) reversed hair miniaturization equivalent to systemic finasteride without affecting serum hormones in stumptail macaques.
  • Topical antiandrogens for AGA (2021): Review of topical AR antagonists showed comparable efficacy to oral 5AR inhibitors with <1% systemic antiandrogen activity.

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Research and educational reference only. Not medical advice.