PhD Ana Ljevar, Managing Director at Humed pharma: Hair Loss – the New “Silent Epidemic

In recent years, we have witnessed a significant rise in hair loss cases, increasingly transcending the boundaries of an aesthetic concern and becoming a relevant medical and public health issue. What was once considered a temporary and largely benign condition now often requires a structured, multidisciplinary approach. Two parallel phenomena stand out in particular: post-COVID syndrome and the widespread use of GLP-1 medications in the treatment of obesity and diabetes. Their combination has positioned hair loss as one of the key topics in modern dermatology and trichology.

Post-COVID and GLP-1 – a shared pathophysiological mechanism

Both post-COVID telogen effluvium and hair loss associated with GLP-1 therapy share a common underlying mechanism – metabolic and inflammatory stress that disrupts the natural hair growth cycle. A significant number of hair follicles prematurely enter the telogen (resting) phase, leading to diffuse shedding. In the context of GLP-1 therapy, an additional factor is rapid weight loss, often accompanied by deficiencies in key nutrients such as amino acids, iron, and zinc, further compromising follicular function.

Tricopat – technology that activates the biological potential of the scalp

Within this context, the Tricopat technology stands out as an advanced, regenerative approach to hair loss management, developed in collaboration with the University of Bologna. Tricopat is based on the patented TRICOGENESI™ protocol, which integrates multiple complementary technologies within a single treatment:

– microstimulation and micro-perforations that trigger natural regenerative processes

– acoustic (radial) waves that enhance microcirculation

– electrostimulation to increase tissue oxygenation

– LED photobiomodulation with anti-inflammatory and regenerative effects

– iontophoresis for deep transdermal delivery of active ingredients

A key advantage of the system is iontophoresis, which uses low electrical currents to enhance the penetration of active molecules directly into the hair follicle, significantly improving their bioavailability without invasive procedures.

During treatment, tailored combinations of active ingredients—such as amino acids, growth factors, and other targeted compounds—are delivered to the scalp, resulting in:

– prolongation of the anagen (growth) phase

– reactivation of dormant follicles

– increased hair density and thickness

Importantly, Tricopat treatments are now available in leading dermatology and aesthetic clinics, where they are performed under professional supervision and adapted to individual patient needs.

Iraltone – a new generation of oral follicle “boosters”

While Tricopat works externally, an effective modern approach also requires strong internal support. The Iraltone line represents a new generation of oral boosters specifically designed to target the underlying causes of hair loss.

Their mechanism of action is based on several key pillars:

  1. Keratin synthesis support  

Amino acids and B-complex vitamins provide essential building blocks for hair production.

  1. Reduction of oxidative stress  

Antioxidants protect the follicle from damage, particularly in post-COVID recovery and rapid weight loss scenarios.

  1. Hair cycle regulation  

Active ingredients help shift follicles from the telogen phase back into the anagen phase.

  1. Nutritional and mineral balance  

Zinc, iron, and other micronutrients are essential for maintaining healthy hair and scalp function.

What makes Iraltone a true “booster” is its ability to accelerate follicular recovery under physiological stress conditions, making it especially valuable in post-COVID and GLP-1-related hair loss. An additional advantage is accessibility – Iraltone boosters are available in pharmacies, enabling early intervention and easy integration into daily routines.

Synergy as the new therapeutic standard

The most effective outcomes are achieved through a combined approach:

– Tricopat (local stimulation and scalp regeneration)

– Iraltone (systemic nutritional and metabolic support)

This integrated strategy allows simultaneous action on all major contributing factors:

follicular microenvironment, systemic nutritional status, inflammatory and oxidative processes and hair growth cycle regulation.  Such synergy represents a new standard in managing complex forms of hair loss.  Hair loss in the post-COVID era and during GLP-1 therapy is not a passing trend, but a reflection of deeper physiological and metabolic changes. As such, it requires timely recognition, proper diagnosis, and a targeted, evidence-based therapeutic approach. Technologies such as Tricopat and next-generation nutraceuticals like Iraltone represent a significant advancement—offering efficacy, safety, and accessibility.