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There are currently two chemical drugs widely used to treat hair loss - finasteride and minoxidil.
Finasteride
Finasteride lowers the level of androgens, a
class of hormone that affects hair loss.
Finasteride is an inhibitor of
5-alpha-reductase, an enzyme responsible for the
production of dihydrotestosterone (DHT). It was
originally used to treat benign prostate
hyperplasia or prostate enlargement. It is only
available via doctor's prescription and should
not be used without prior medical consultation.
Studies discovered that the blocking of DHT production by finasteride can also stop hair loss in 83% and increase hair count in 60% of men (with only 42% showing visible improvement).
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Side Effects :
Finasteride include sexual performance
problems, such as impotence or erectile
dysfunction. This side effect lasts for as long
as the medicine is taken. Finasteride is also
not approved for women and has not been shown to
work for receding hairline at the temple.
Women who are or may become pregnant should not
take or handle crushed or broken finasteride
tablets because finasteride can cause birth
defects
Minoxidil
Minoxidil is a topical solution that is thought
to work by promoting blood microcirculation to
hair follicles. It is available without
prescription in two forms: a 2% solution for men
and women and a 5% extra-strength for men only.
Minoxidil is not a DHT inhibitor and does not
cause hair loss to stop. Instead, it promotes
new hair growth by forcing the hair follicles to
grow, and in some people, can successfully
override the hair loss rate. The new hair,
however, is often thinner and finer than regular
hair. Minoxidil (2% or 5% solution) is a spray or
lotion that you put directly on your scalp twice
a day. It is available without a prescription.
Side Effects :
The most common side
effects include skin irritation and an itchy
scalp. In women, minoxidil may promote facial
hair growth, especially on the forehead and
cheeks.
If you have heart problems, ask your health
professional about using this medication.
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