Alopecia
I have been experiencing increased hair loss recently, and it seems to be getting worse.
The Department of Health has approved an oral medication called Rogaine, but I'm unsure if it is effective for hair loss.
I am the first in my family to experience hair loss, as others have gone bald, but I am experiencing it more slowly.
I would like to know if there are any treatment options available.
Additionally, since Rogaine is a medication developed in the United States, could you inform me if it is available for purchase and what the price might be? Thank you.
Zhu, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2000/08/23
Dr. Zheng Lizhen reply Dermatology
It seems there may be an error in the information, as a three-year-old girl should not typically have androgenetic alopecia.
If there is significant hair loss, it is likely due to another cause.
Rogaine (Minoxidil) is now officially available in Taiwan, so there is no need to travel to the United States.
Most medical institutions carry it, and you can call to inquire about availability, with prices around 72.5 TWD.
Rogaine is a prescription medication, so you should first consult your dermatologist for a diagnosis to confirm androgenetic alopecia before proceeding with appropriate treatment.
Unfortunately, Rogaine is not suitable for women, as taking it during pregnancy can lead to feminization of male infants and issues such as hypospadias.
Even if not pregnant, Rogaine is less effective for treating female androgenetic alopecia compared to males, which remains an area needing further research.
Currently, women can only use topical solutions containing minoxidil to improve their condition.
Reply Date: 2000/08/23
More Info
When it comes to hair loss, particularly androgenetic alopecia (commonly known as male pattern baldness), there are several treatment options available, including medications like finasteride (often marketed as Propecia) and minoxidil (commonly known as Rogaine). However, your question specifically mentions Ropinirole, which is not typically used for hair loss but rather as a medication for Parkinson's disease and restless legs syndrome. Therefore, I will focus on the more relevant treatments for hair loss.
1. Finasteride (Ropinirole is not applicable here):
Finasteride is an oral medication that works by inhibiting the enzyme 5-alpha-reductase, which converts testosterone into dihydrotestosterone (DHT). DHT is a key factor in the miniaturization of hair follicles leading to hair loss in genetically predisposed individuals. Clinical studies have shown that finasteride can significantly reduce hair loss and promote regrowth in many men. It is important to note that while finasteride is effective, it can have side effects, including decreased libido, erectile dysfunction, and in some cases, psychological effects such as depression. These side effects are generally rare and reversible upon discontinuation of the medication.
2. Minoxidil:
Minoxidil is a topical treatment that is applied directly to the scalp. It works by increasing blood flow to the hair follicles and prolonging the anagen (growth) phase of the hair cycle. Minoxidil is available over the counter in various concentrations, with 5% being the most common for men. While minoxidil can be effective, it requires continuous use; if you stop using it, any hair regrowth may be lost, and you may return to your baseline hair loss state. This is often misunderstood; while some believe that stopping minoxidil will lead to more severe hair loss, it typically just means returning to the natural progression of hair loss.
3. Saw Palmetto:
Saw palmetto is a herbal supplement that some believe may help in reducing DHT levels, similar to finasteride, but the evidence supporting its efficacy is limited and not as robust. Some studies suggest it may have a mild effect on hair loss, but it is not a substitute for clinically proven treatments like finasteride or minoxidil.
4. Combination Therapy:
Many dermatologists recommend a combination of treatments for optimal results. For instance, using both finasteride and minoxidil together can be more effective than using either one alone. This approach targets hair loss from multiple angles—reducing DHT levels and promoting blood flow to the hair follicles.
5. Other Options:
In addition to medications, there are other treatment options available for hair loss, including low-level laser therapy (LLLT), platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections, and hair transplant surgery. These options may be considered depending on the severity of hair loss and individual preferences.
Conclusion:
If you are experiencing significant hair loss and have a family history of androgenetic alopecia, it is advisable to consult with a dermatologist or a healthcare provider specializing in hair loss. They can provide a proper diagnosis and recommend the most suitable treatment options based on your specific condition. Remember, early intervention often yields better results, so seeking professional advice sooner rather than later is beneficial.
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