Why Use a Hair Loss Medication

If you are suffering from hair loss, you are not alone. In fact, you are one of the more than 40 million men and 20 million women in America who are affected by the disorder. Until recently, there have been no effective means of treating thinning and balding areas of the scalp. However, hair loss medication of different types are already available.

How hair loss medications work

Whether taken internally or applied topically, these drugs work by inhibiting the DHT hormones, the leading factors that cause hair loss and baldness. These medications are also used to treat scalpel conditions that are linked to hair loss. For most people, using hair loss medications have been a proven pharmaceutical method for the prevention of hair loss. The following are the most commonly used medications that treat hair loss.

Minoxidil

Minoxidil is an over-the-counter topical solution that has been approved by the FDA for the treatment of hair loss. It can be used by both men and women. It is rubbed directly on the scalp twice a day to stimulate the growth of new hair. It has been observed that this hair loss medication is most effective on areas where hair is still present. Minoxidil is a hair loss medication that has been marketed for its effectiveness in replacing hair found on the top rear of the scalp. The hair that grows after minoxidil use is often fuzz or the baby-fine kind of hair.

Finasteride

Finasteride is another widely used hair loss medication that has been approved by the FDA and has been proven to help a majority of men treat male pattern baldness. Finasteride is a prescription medication that is taken once a day. This treatment works by inhibiting the conversion of testosterone into DHT (dihydrotestosterone), which is one of the main factors of hair loss. People who have taken finasteride report that results are evident after 4 months. A majority of finasteride users reported that the bald spots on the top of the head were getting smaller, there was a reduction in the amount of hair lost, and that there was a significant improvement in the appearance of their hair.

How effective are these hair loss medications?

The efficacy of minoxidil and finasteride are dependent on the patient's age and the area where hair loss is concentrated. What these medications do is slow down the process of hair loss. These drugs also increase scalp coverage by growing new hair and improving the existing hair. Both these hair loss medications need to be taken daily for their effectiveness to last. When treatments are stopped, any hair growth that occurred will slowly fall out. Six to 12 months after quitting these treatments, it is assumed that the condition of your scalp will be back to its appearance right before you started taking medications.

When to use a hair loss medication

The need to use a hair loss medication will depend on several reasons. One is that you have noticed a significant loss of hair and you want to prevent your scalp from losing more. Also, regrowing your hair can mean a boost in your self-confidence and make you feel better about your overall look.