Hair loss: treatment options
Hair loss medication products for the treatment of baldness are classified as pharmacist-only or prescription-only medicines. Early treatment of hereditary hair loss is more successful when started at the first signs of hair thinning. Treatment must be continuous to maintain re-growth. If the treatment is stopped, re-growth ceases and hair loss will start again. The effectiveness of treatment may not be measurable for up to 12 months.
Minoxidil topical lotion, such as Rogaine, can slow progressive balding in hereditary hair loss, but not all hair will grow back. You should apply the lotion to your scalp while it is dry and leave it for at least 4 hours after application.
You should not exceed the recommended dose, as over-use will not achieve better or faster growth. The most common side effect is an itchy scalp.
You should always wash your hands thoroughly after applying the lotion, and avoid getting it in your eyes, nose or mouth. When taken in tablet form, minoxidil is used to treat high blood pressure and, if accidentally swallowed, could potentially affect normal heart function and blood pressure.
This product should not be used by women during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
Finasteride tablets (Propecia) are another treatment available on prescription, but are for the treatment of androgenic alopecia (male pattern baldness) in men only.
Last Reviewed: 11 March 2009
