Medicinal Treatment for Hair Loss

When you visit your GP about hair loss, they will determine the cause and devise a treatment plan, which may include medication to address your condition.

Medicine for Hair Loss

There are very few medicines available that can treat or even reverse hair loss. The primary options include:

• Finasteride (Propecia): Effective in reducing hair loss and promoting regrowth by blocking DHT production.
• Dutasteride (Avodart): Works similarly to Finasteride and also helps shrink an enlarged prostate.
• Minoxidil (Regaine): A topical treatment that prevents further hair loss and stimulates hair follicles.

How These Medicines Work

Finasteride and Dutasteride block 5-alpha reductase, an enzyme responsible for converting testosterone into dihydrotestosterone (DHT), which contributes to male pattern baldness. Minoxidil, on the other hand, improves blood circulation to the hair follicles, promoting hair growth.

Side Effects and Considerations

As with any medicine, there are benefits and risks:

• Finasteride and Dutasteride may cause decreased libido, rashes, and ejaculation disorders.
• Minoxidil requires continuous use; stopping treatment leads to hair loss recurrence.
• These medicines are not prescribed for women of childbearing age due to potential risks.

Important Notes

While these treatments can be effective, they do not regrow hair around the temples. They are often used in combination with other treatments, such as hair transplant surgery, for optimal results.