Finasteride (brand name Propecia)
Taken as a daily 1mg tablet, finasteride is usually recommended for consideration by patients who still have some significant hair left, and would like to slow or stop the balding process, or even enhance the existing fullness. Younger patients, who are losing their hair more quickly in their 20’s and 30's are strongly encouraged by Dr. Cole to consider finasteride as part of their treatment program.

Patients over 40, whose hair loss is more stable, may still consider it as an adjunct treatment along with a hair transplant. Since finasteride helps to maintain and sometimes improve the existing hair in the balding area, it can assist in creating a fuller look when combined with a hair transplant. Since the transplanted hair follicles are programmed to grow for your life time, your transplanted hair follicles do not need finasteride in order to keep growing; however, the original follicles in the balding area which are programmed to fall out under the influence of DHT, do need this medication.

Finasteride is available from a physican or pharmacy by prescription only.
Finasteride can be taken only by men, and is of no benefit to women.

Read about possible side effects

GOOD NEWS!
Finasteride also reduces risk of prostate enlargement
and cancer. In addition to enhancing or maintaining existing hair in males, finasteride can shrink the prostate and reduce the risk of benign prostatic hypertrophy (enlarged prostate), leading to difficulties with urination.

Recent medical studies are showing that the risk of prostate cancer drops by about 25% among men
taking finasteride.

 

Minoxidil (brand name Rogaine)
Taken twice daily as a topical solution of 2-5%, minoxidil can be used on the scalp, especially for crown baldness, to assist in the re-growth and maintenance of existing balding hair. This medication can be very effective, but must be applied to the thinning scalp twice daily. This treatment requires a highly motivated patient, and thus Dr. Cole is less enthusiastic about recommending this approach due to poor patient commitment and participation.

Minoxidil is available over the counter in Canada in a 2% formulation. It is available in the US in a 2% formulation and 5% foam.The foam has more side effects. Minoxidil can be used by both men and women.

Read about possible side effects

Dr. Cole's commitment to patient education
Dr. Cole will review the details, effectiveness, and side effects of these medications as part of your consultation, helping you determine if they should be part of your treatment program.




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