There are two medications approved by FDA for treatment of androgenetic alopecia- Finasteride and Minoxidil.
Finasteride is a medication that is taken orally, it is used to inhibit the production of the hormone dihydrotestosterone (DHT) which plays a major role in androgenetic alopecia (male pattern baldness). It is only available by prescription and is only approved for use in men.
Finasteride works by blocking the action of the enzyme that converts testosterone to DHT. By reducing the levels of DHT in the scalp, finasteride can help to slow or stop hair loss and promote hair growth in some men.
Finasteride is typically taken once a day, usually at the same time each day. It may take several months to see results, and the treatment must be continued in order to maintain the benefits. If you stop taking the medication, your hair loss will typically return.
It’s important to note that finasteride is not a cure for hair loss, but it can help to slow or stop hair loss and promote hair growth in some men. It is also known to have some side effects, some of which may be serious, so it’s important to talk to a medical professional before starting use and to report any unusual side effects to your doctor.
Minoxidil is a medication that is applied topically to the scalp. It is used to stimulate hair growth and is most commonly used to treat androgenetic alopecia (male or female pattern baldness). It is available over-the-counter, and can be used by both men and women.
Minoxidil works by increasing blood flow to the hair follicles, which can help to stimulate hair growth. It is thought to widen the blood vessels in the scalp, allowing more oxygen, blood, and nutrients to reach the hair follicles. This can help to prolong the growth phase of the hair cycle, resulting in thicker and longer hair.
Minoxidil is typically applied twice a day, and it may take several months to see results. The treatment must be continued in order to maintain the benefits. If you stop using the medication, your hair will return to its previous state.
It’s important to note that minoxidil is not a cure for hair loss, but it can help to slow or stop hair loss and promote hair growth in some people. As with any medication, it’s important to talk to your doctor or a medical professional before starting use, to determine if it is safe and appropriate for you.