There are a number of medications available for those suffering from hair loss. The results of these medications are variable and depend on the patient, cause, and pattern of hair loss. The two most commonly used medications are Finasteride (also known as Propecia) and Minoxidil (also known as Regaine). Clinical trials have shown that both medications can have a significantly beneficial impact on hair loss.
Hair loss medications work by blocking testosterone’s conversion into dihydrotestosterone (DHT). DHT is the hormone that causes hair loss in both men and women. Hair follicles that are vulnerable to the hormone will break down and become non-functional after contact, which prevents the hairs from growing or replenishing.
Hair loss medications make the conversion into DHT impossible. This prevents healthy hair follicles from being weakened or destroyed by the hormone. Surprisingly, it can also result in hair growth and the replenishing of hairs that were previously lost.
While medications can be effective at treating hair loss, it is important to note that they are not capable of rejuvenating follicles around the hairline. It is most common to see growth at the crown of the head, but a continued lack of hair around the hairline.
Patients will receive the best results by using medications to rejuvenate hair at the crown of the head, which can then be used during hair transplant procedures to fill in the bald areas at the hairline. Continued use of medications after transplantation may be advised in order to avoid the progression of hair loss.