Veradermics’ VDPHL01: Extended-Release Oral Minoxidil in Phase 3 Trials for Pattern Hair Loss

Veradermics, a clinical-stage dermatology company, announced on October 16 the completion of an oversubscribed $150 million Series C financing round. The funding will support the advancement of its lead investigational candidate, VDPHL01—an extended-release oral formulation of minoxidil being studied for androgenic alopecia in both men and women. The company describes it as the first oral medication specifically developed for this indication using a non-hormonal approach. VDPHL01 is currently in Phase 3 clinical trials in the United States.

Technology and Development Approach

VDPHL01 uses an extended-release system designed to maintain more stable blood levels of minoxidil compared with conventional immediate-release tablets. Standard oral minoxidil, originally developed for hypertension, is rapidly cleared from the body and may produce concentration peaks associated with cardiovascular side effects. Veradermics’ formulation employs a gel matrix intended to release the drug gradually, providing sustained exposure while keeping systemic concentrations below levels associated with cardiac risk. The goal of the approach is to retain hair-promoting efficacy while improving overall tolerability.

Phase 2 Clinical Results

In an ongoing open-label Phase 2 study evaluating multiple doses of VDPHL01 in men, early results indicated increases in terminal hair counts and high overall satisfaction ratings among participants. After two months of treatment (8.5 mg twice daily, n=21), mean hair density increased by 37.5 hairs per cm², rising to 47.3 hairs per cm² by four months. According to company-reported data, no serious adverse events or cardiac-related issues have been observed to date. Although these findings are preliminary, they support continued investigation in larger, controlled trials.

Comparative Observations

At the 2025 European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology (EADV) Congress, Veradermics presented a retrospective, blinded image assessment comparing outcomes from its Phase 2 cohort to literature data from patients treated with standard oral minoxidil (5 mg daily) and topical 5% minoxidil. Independent experts reported that initial responses with VDPHL01 appeared to emerge earlier in some participants. However, the company has noted that definitive conclusions require results from the ongoing randomized Phase 3 studies.

Phase 3

Three Phase 3 trials are now enrolling men and women with pattern hair loss across multiple U.S. sites (NCT06724614, NCT06972264, NCT07146022). These studies will assess changes in hair count and participant satisfaction over extended treatment periods. Results from these trials will inform a potential New Drug Application submission to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.

Context in the Current Treatment Landscape

Prescription treatments for androgenic alopecia have remained largely unchanged for decades, with finasteride and topical minoxidil representing the primary options. Many individuals experience limited efficacy or side effects with these therapies, making new approaches, such as extended-release oral minoxidil, potentially significant if further evidence supports benefit and safety.

Reflections

 Important questions persist about long-term safety, durability of regrowth, and how VDPHL01 will compare to current therapies outside of controlled studies. The outcome of ongoing Phase 3 trials and regulatory review will be pivotal in determining its future clinical role—especially in women, who have had fewer oral treatment options.

As further results become available, this will be watched closely to assess whether this new formulation truly expands effective hair regrowth care for those who need it most.

What do you think about VDPHL01? Let us know in the comments!