Finasteride: treatment for men
Finasteride is an oral medication that has been introduced to the market in the past decade. It is available by prescription only and is only approved for use by men.Through scientific studies, it has been shown to re-grow hair in a significant number of men and stop hair loss in an even higher percentage.
Finasteride works by decreasing the formation of DHT, a hormone responsible in large part for male pattern hair loss, while not reducing testosterone, the overall male hormone responsible for masculinity.
Therefore, any side effects that may involve male sexual function are mild and occurin less than 2% of all patients.
Finasteride has been available for over 10 years and has been shown to be safe and effective. Finasteride works best for early or moderate hair loss, but it may also help patients with more advanced hair loss to preserve their remaining hair.
Its use is suggested by hair restoration surgeons as an effective medication to slow down or reverse male pattern hair loss in many men.
It is often used as a complementary treatment for hair transplant patients.
Minoxidil: slowing down the process
Topical minoxidil has been around for over 15 years and is helpful in slowing down hair loss, but less effective in helping new hair to grow.A higher concentration (5% solution) of minoxidil is now available for men and has been shown to be more effective than the 2% solution.
5% minoxidil solution is generally not recommended for use by women because it may stimulate the growth of facial hair, and also because at least one study suggests that it is not more effective than the 2% in females.
How do I choose?
Both finasteride and minoxidil must be used on a continual basis in order to sustain results, and if discontinued, the process of balding resumes. These medications may not work for everyone, but they have a proven track record that shows a significant benefit to many people.In addition, combination treatment with minoxidil solution and finasteride may provide added benefit for men with androgenetic alopecia. The most important to thing is to consult a medical professional to be sure you understand the benefits and risks of each treatment.
