At present only two medications have been approved by the FDA
for the treatment of hair loss, namely finasteride (Propecia)
and minoxidil (Rogaine). While both of these continue to prove
their worth to many patients, some individuals are disappointed
with their results and seek other forms of treatment. Often they
turn to drugs that have not been approved for the treatment of
hair loss, but which have shown themselves over time to have a
positive effect in dealing with this condition.
1. Avodart (dutasteride) - this is a new medication that is not
yet approved for hair loss but which offers exciting
possibilities for treating male patten baldness. It works in a
similar way to Propecia which prevents one of two enzymes from
converting testosterone into DHT thus blocking two thirds of DHT
production. Avodart takes this process a stage further by
blocking both enzymes thus reducing overall DHT production by
93%. It is currently approved for the treatment of enlarged
prostates and should not under any circumstances be taken by
women of child bearing age.
2. Proscar (finasteride) - Propecia has become a valued weapon
in the fight against male pattern baldness but it began life in
the form of Proscar. In fact, the active ingredient is identical
with Proscar containing a higher dose of 5 mg compared with
Propecia's 1 mg. Many men therefore assume that the higher dose
is more effective in preventing the conversion of testosterone
into DHT. The extent to which this is true is debatable although
the basic facts do tell us Proscar blocks slightly more DHT
formation. Some physicians feel its use is warranted in a small
proportion of older men and women who previously have not
responded to treatment with Propecia.
3. Tretinoin (Retin-A) - this is well known for the treatment of
acne but medical studies have shown it also helps stimulate hair
regrowth. Some experts argue that tretinoin enhances the
absorption and penetration of minoxidil into the hair follicles.
As a result, several formulas of tretinoin and minoxidil are
available, generally only by prescription.
Please go to Hair Loss Treatments to find out more about the issues
covered in this article.
About Author :
Richard Mitchell is the creator of the www.myhairloss
advisor.com website that provides information and guidance
to those suffering from premature hair loss.
