Topical and oral medications can be effective in treating various forms of hair loss, depending on the underlying cause.

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Rogaine (minoxidil) is a topical solution approved for both men and women that can help promote hair growth by increasing blood flow to hair follicles and prolonging the growth phase of the hair cycle. It works in about 60% of women and about 80% of men. It requires patience as it can take close to 6 months to really notice a difference. Dr. Jain sometimes compounds a prescription-strength topical minoxidil with other medications into a special customized solution for patients to apply to their scalp. Side effects include scalp irritation, unwanted facial hair growth and rarely an increase in heart rate.

 

Another type of treatment, specifically for androgenetic or pattern hair loss, is a dihydrotestosterone (DHT) blocker that improves the hormonal imbalance that results in hair loss. DHT is a hormone that contributes to hair loss in both men and women. It is an androgen hormone derived from testosterone and it binds androgen receptors located at the hair follicle, triggering hair miniaturization, excess hair shedding and hair loss.  Blocking DHT can help slow and sometimes even reverse the process of hair loss.  Oral prescription DHT blockers include spironolactone, finasteride and dutasteride.  Dr. Jain will decide which medication is right for you based on your history, age, medical history and which type of hair loss you have.

 

Another option is oral minoxidil. This is a blood pressure medication but can be very helpful in androgenetic alopecia due to its effect on hair follicles. Minoxidil stimulates hair follicles and keeps them in the active growth phase.