Hair loss prevention / stabilisation medications
Occasionally the desired results are not achievable due to lack of donor supply. In such cases, we discuss the best possible outcomes achievable and any ways to optimise the native hair growth.,Sometimes a hair transplant is not suitable for you at this time, but requires some preliminary treatments to improve the quality of the native hairs or to stabilise the hair loss and reverse any miniaturised follicles as much as possible. There are a range of treatments that can help with this, namely the following:
Mainstay treatments include Finasteride and Minoxidil.
MINOXIDIL
Minoxidil is an FDA-approved, clinically proven medication used to treat hair loss (androgenetic alopecia) in both men and women. It works by increasing blood flow and oxygen to the scalp, which reinvigorates hair follicles and prolongs the hair's active growth phase.
How it's used
- Topical (Foam/Solution): Applied directly to the scalp, typically in 2% or 5% concentrations. It is available over-the-counter and is applied once or twice daily, depending on the formulation.
- Oral: Low-dose oral minoxidil is also available but generally requires a prescription and monitoring by a doctor.
Effectiveness & Timeline
- Results: It takes an average of 3 to 6 months of consistent daily use to notice new hair growth.
- Reversibility: It is not a permanent cure. If you stop using minoxidil, your hair will slowly revert to its previous state of thinning or hair loss within a few months.
Considerations & Side Effects
- Initial Shedding: Some users experience a temporary increase in hair shedding during the first few weeks as old hairs make way for new growth.
- Side Effects: Topical use can cause mild scalp irritation, dryness, or unwanted hair growth if the product drips onto other areas of the face or body. Oral minoxidil carries a higher risk of systemic side effects like changes in blood pressure or heart rate
(Side effects listed are not exhaustive, refer to the patient information leaflet contained within the medication box for the extensive list)
FINASTERIDE
Finasteride is an oral medication primarily used to treat male pattern hair loss (under the brand name Propecia) and an enlarged prostate, known as benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), under the brand Proscar. It works by inhibiting the 5-alpha reductase enzyme, which reduces the production of dihydrotestosterone (DHT).
Key Uses & Dosages
- Male Pattern Hair Loss: Typically a 1 mg tablet taken daily. In clinical use it slows or halts hair loss in most men and prompts some regrowth; a doctor will confirm whether it is suitable for you. Results usually take 3 to 6 months to become visible.
- Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH): A 5 mg tablet taken daily to shrink the prostate, easing urination difficulties.
Important Things to Know
- It requires continuous use: If you stop taking finasteride, any hair you have regrown or maintained will be lost within 6 to 12 months.
- Prescription requirements: In the UK, finasteride is available via prescription only. While 5 mg tablets for BPH can be obtained through the NHS, 1 mg tablets for hair loss are only available via private prescription.
- Who it's for: It is strictly prescribed for adult men. It should never be used by pregnant or breastfeeding women, as it can cause birth defects.
Side Effects
While generally well-tolerated, potential side effects require monitoring:
- Sexual side effects: Low sex drive and difficulty getting an erection, which can rarely persist even after stopping the treatment.
- Mood changes: Rare reports of low mood, depression, and suicidal thoughts.
- Breast changes: Lumps, pain, swelling, or nipple discharge (consult a doctor immediately for these).
(Side effects listed are not exhaustive, refer to the patient information leaflet contained within the medication box for the extensive list)
For more information on costs and private prescription services, consult the NHS Finasteride Guide or speak with registered providers
Combinations of both Minoxidil and Finasteride can be obtained in spray/topical form as well as in a combined pill form.
There are also standalone oral and topical versions of each medication as sometimes side effects to an oral medication may mean topical is the better format for you, or vice versa.