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Finasteride
One anti-androgenic drug now being used as a baldness remedy is
oral finasteride. It inhibits the 5-alpha reductase (enzyme) that
transforms testosterone into the dihydrotestosterone (DHT) form
responsible for hair loss. Blocking the action of DHT seems to stimulate
growth of stronger, thicker and more pigmented hair. In one multicentre
study, 200 males aged 18 to 35 with distinct baldness had a one-inch
circle of scalp shaved and periodically examined for hair growth.
The report states that "men taking 5 mg per day of oral finasteride
had significantly increased hair growth. Side effects - such as
impotence, loss of libido and reduced sperm counts - were not widespread,
and often decreased with time, affecting about three per cent of
the sample." Ideal candidates for finasteride treatment are
men who have already fathered all the children they wish, as its
use for baldness might be lifelong and it could harm any fetus conceived
(while taking it). Further studies are needed to assess the drug's
efficacy, dosage and long-term safety. Another dihydrotestosterone-inhibitor
now being tested is a derivative of hyaluronic acid, the chemical
at the tip of sperm that aids penetration of the egg's membrane.
Massaged into the scalp, this substance apparently blocks the androgenic
action that causes hair loss, but more research is needed.
More Prescription Hair Loss Drug Articles:
Non-Approved Drugs That
Can Help In The Treatment Of Hair Loss
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...more
How Does
Propecia (Finasteride) Help In The Treatment Of Hair Loss?
Finasteride was initially marketed to treat prostate conditions
under the name Proscar in 5mg pills. It was known to inhibit the
formation of DHT, a major contributor to both prostate cancer and
male pattern hair loss...more
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