We often recommend medications like minoxidil and finasteride to clients experiencing various stages of hair loss. The reasons we prescribe oral and topical medications like these are to slow down progressive hair loss, prevent additional hair loss, and to stimulate hair growth. Medications can be used alone or in conjunction with other treatment modalities.
What Do Dermatologists Prescribe for Hair Loss?
Minoxidil (Rogaine®), which also comes in a topical solution for external use, is used as a anti-hypertensive agent, but it was discovered that it also caused hair growth. It is now used to combat male and female pattern hair loss, telogen effluvium, and several other types of alopecia.
Finasteride (Propecia®, Proscar®), originally used to reduce prostate size, is often prescribed to block an enzyme that binds destructive hormones to hair follicles, causing them to become less productive and ultimately unable to grow hair. Finasteride is prescribed to counter the effects of male pattern baldness (MPB). It is occasionally prescribed off-label for female pattern baldness (FPB), but it is strongly contraindicated for women of childbearing age.
Dutasteride (Avodart®) is another prostate medication sometimes prescribed off-label to block hair-destroying enzymes. It works the same way as finasteride, but dutasteride actually blocks two enzymes instead of one. It also is not for use by women who are or may become pregnant.
Spironolactone (Aldactone®) is used as a diuretic, but is showing promise in the (off-label) treatment of female pattern baldness. In women, it slows the production of androgens (male sex hormones) that cause thinning hair, especially as one ages. Spironolactone is not used to combat hair loss in men, nor should it be used by pregnant women.
What Is the Best Medicine for Hair Loss?
The best hair loss medication is the one that works for you. We believe it is important to custom-tailor a treatment plan for each individual, based on their needs and their hair restoration goals. We take into account the stage of your hair loss and its underlying cause, as well as any health issues you may have. This enables us to choose the medication or medications that will provide optimal results.
When Should I Start Taking Hair Loss Medication?
The sooner you begin taking medication for hair loss, the better. Early intervention can slow down or even halt some of the most common causes of hair loss. It is wise to start as soon as you see the signs of excessive hair loss or a receding hairline, because even the most advanced medications cannot undo hair loss once it becomes permanent.
Is Hair Loss Medication Bad for You?
Commonly used medications that treat hair loss have undergone rigorous testing and are well-tolerated by most individuals. As with any medication, it is important to discuss potential side effects with your prescriber. Side effects are rare and typically mild. One significant exception is that women who are or may become pregnant should avoid finasteride, dutasteride, and spironolactone, as taking it may cause birth defects, especially in male fetuses.
Can You Take Hair Loss Medication for a Prolonged Period of Time?
Hair loss medications have been determined to be safe for long term use for most patients. Many people take them for months or even years to ensure continued benefits.
Can You Combine Hair Loss Medications with Other Treatments?
Not only can hair loss medications be combined with other treatments, but we also actually recommend it. Medications that work internally can be complemented with topicals or with treatments like platelet rich plasma therapy (PRP) or low-level laser treatments that help hair grow by stimulating or nourishing the scalp. We may even suggest taking medications after a hair transplant to prevent hair loss in untreated areas of the scalp and to stimulate healthy growth in both donor and recipient areas.
Finding the Treatment That is Right for You
At RHRLI, we believe in helping our clients make informed decisions about medications and procedures that help them meet their hair restoration goals. If you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to ask us. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation where we can determine the underlying cause of your hair loss, help you maximize your existing hair, and create a plan to achieve the hairline you desire.