Ropay: Effectiveness and Usage for Hair Loss Treatment

The issue of "soft braces."

About six months ago, I used the product "Micoshu," which the pharmacy described as having the same ingredients as "Rogaine" 5%.
However, after using it until today, I still haven't seen any results.
Therefore, yesterday I visited a dermatologist near my home who recommended "Ropei." He mentioned that it could restore my hair density to that of a normal person in just three months, so I went to the pharmacy and spent 1900 TWD to buy "Ropei," and I am currently using it.
My questions are:
1.
Is the efficacy of Ropei better than that of Rogaine?
2.
What is the success rate of Ropei in maintaining hair density? What is the success rate of regrowing to normal hair density?
3.
The doctor said my hair loss is between stage one and stage two; does this mean it is in the later stages?
4.
Is 1900 TWD a normal price for Ropei?
5.
Can Ropei be taken with other foods? Because after taking the medication, I might immediately eat other foods or drinks.
These are my questions, and I hope the doctor can answer them.

Xiao Guang, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2004/10/31

Dr. Huang Ruiyun reply Dermatology

1.
Everyone's reaction is different; you won't know until you try it.

2.
About 70% is maintained, and only 5% return to normal.

3.
It's just the beginning (early stage)!
4.
It's a bit cheaper.

5.
Yes, it's possible.

Reply Date: 2004/10/31

More Info

Ropay, known generically as Finasteride, is a medication commonly used for the treatment of male pattern baldness (androgenetic alopecia). It works by inhibiting the enzyme 5-alpha-reductase, which is responsible for converting testosterone into dihydrotestosterone (DHT). DHT is a key factor in hair loss for those genetically predisposed to androgenetic alopecia.
1. Effectiveness Compared to Minoxidil (Rogaine): The effectiveness of Ropay (Finasteride) compared to Minoxidil (Rogaine) can vary from person to person. While Minoxidil is a topical treatment that promotes hair regrowth and is effective for many users, Finasteride works systemically to reduce DHT levels, which can lead to a decrease in hair loss and potentially promote regrowth. Clinical studies suggest that Finasteride may be more effective than Minoxidil in preventing further hair loss and promoting regrowth in some patients, particularly in those with early to moderate hair loss.

2. Success Rates: The success rate of Finasteride in maintaining hair volume is reported to be around 70% in clinical studies. However, the percentage of users who experience significant regrowth to a level considered "normal" is lower, estimated at about 5-10%. It’s important to note that individual results can vary widely based on factors such as the extent of hair loss, duration of treatment, and individual response to the medication.

3. Stage of Hair Loss: When your doctor mentions that your hair loss is between the first and second stages, it typically refers to the Norwood scale, which classifies the stages of male pattern baldness. The first stage indicates minimal hair loss, while the second stage shows more noticeable thinning, particularly at the temples. This classification suggests that you are still in the early stages of hair loss, which is generally a good time to start treatment, as early intervention can lead to better outcomes.

4. Cost of Ropay: The price of 1900 TWD for Ropay may vary depending on the pharmacy and location. Generally, this price is within the normal range for prescription medications in many regions, but it’s always a good idea to compare prices at different pharmacies or check if your insurance covers part of the cost.

5. Taking Ropay with Food: Finasteride can be taken with or without food, so you do not need to worry about taking it alongside other foods or beverages. However, it’s advisable to maintain a consistent routine regarding when you take the medication to ensure optimal absorption and effectiveness.

In summary, Ropay (Finasteride) can be an effective treatment for male pattern baldness, particularly in the early stages of hair loss. It’s essential to have realistic expectations regarding the outcomes and to be aware that individual responses can vary. Consulting with a healthcare provider for personalized advice and monitoring during treatment is crucial. If you have any concerns about side effects or interactions with other medications, discussing these with your doctor is also recommended.

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