Malepattern hair loss androgenetic alopecia is a genetic condition with no known cure. In the past there have been no legitimate treatment options, but now, with the introduction of Rogaine minoxidil and Propecia, theres some hope.
Rogaine, an overthecounter lotion that is rubbed on the scalp twice daily, is available in 2 percent and 5 percent strengths. Originally developed to treat high blood pressure, the drug has been studied for more than two decades and is considered safe, although how it works remains a mystery. While the 5 percent solution works faster, and most say better, some find the consistency too greasy and favor the lower dosage.
In general, the younger the candidate and the smaller the amount of hair loss, the more likely Rogaine will work. Those between ages 25 and 35 who have experienced hair loss for less than five years and have only a small area of baldness see the best results, says Arthur Jacknowitz, Pharm. D., chairman of the department of clinical pharmacy at West Virginia University.
The most common side effect experienced in less than 2 percent of users is an allergic rash. In some cases the drug can cause additional hair loss, which however can be reversed. According to Jacknowitz, those with a preexisting cardiovascular problem should use the drug with extreme caution, as the possibility exists that dizziness, increased heart rate and other heart problems could occur.
Propecia is a prescription pill originally marketed at a higher dosage to treat enlarged prostates; it has been available for the treatment of hair loss since 1998. The drug lowers the production of dihydrotestosterone, a male hormone blamed for hair loss. It is not prescribed for women, as it can cause birth defects in their offspring and has not been shown to be effective in studies of women beyond their childbearing years.
Rogaine, an overthecounter lotion that is rubbed on the scalp twice daily, is available in 2 percent and 5 percent strengths. Originally developed to treat high blood pressure, the drug has been studied for more than two decades and is considered safe, although how it works remains a mystery. While the 5 percent solution works faster, and most say better, some find the consistency too greasy and favor the lower dosage.
In general, the younger the candidate and the smaller the amount of hair loss, the more likely Rogaine will work. Those between ages 25 and 35 who have experienced hair loss for less than five years and have only a small area of baldness see the best results, says Arthur Jacknowitz, Pharm. D., chairman of the department of clinical pharmacy at West Virginia University.
The most common side effect experienced in less than 2 percent of users is an allergic rash. In some cases the drug can cause additional hair loss, which however can be reversed. According to Jacknowitz, those with a preexisting cardiovascular problem should use the drug with extreme caution, as the possibility exists that dizziness, increased heart rate and other heart problems could occur.
Propecia is a prescription pill originally marketed at a higher dosage to treat enlarged prostates; it has been available for the treatment of hair loss since 1998. The drug lowers the production of dihydrotestosterone, a male hormone blamed for hair loss. It is not prescribed for women, as it can cause birth defects in their offspring and has not been shown to be effective in studies of women beyond their childbearing years.
As with Rogaine, Propecia works best in younger people with limited hair loss. Results can be seen anywhere from a couple of months to a year after beginning treatment.
While the drug appears safe and may even have some health benefits related to keeping the prostate small impotence has been associated with use of the drug in a very small percentage of men.
Every man is afraid of that, says Wilma Bergfeld, M.D., head of clinical research for the department of dermatology at the Cleveland Clinic in Ohio, who was involved in studies of both drugs, but in truth it hasnt been a problem.
While the drug appears safe and may even have some health benefits related to keeping the prostate small impotence has been associated with use of the drug in a very small percentage of men.
Every man is afraid of that, says Wilma Bergfeld, M.D., head of clinical research for the department of dermatology at the Cleveland Clinic in Ohio, who was involved in studies of both drugs, but in truth it hasnt been a problem.
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