Hair Loss Issues and Medications

Being vain in today’s generation is an accepted norm and with the existence of everything which helps us achieve our better self, the world is conceived to offer all the solutions for every problem.

One of the most embarrassing moments in one’s life which many people do experience but are afraid to admit is hair loss. Admit it or not, with a lot of emerging products from hair coloring to achieving the perfect curl, we knowingly damage our hair for the sake of beauty. Fortunately, we have existing solutions for this issue as well.

According to a study conducted by the Peterson Group, an online community dedicated to know the real effects of Complementary, Alternative and Integrative medicines in the new generation’s health and lifestyle, there are various choices available to prevent hair loss. Treatments can range from medications, surgery, laser therapy, wigs and hairpieces. Physicians may suggest combination of one or two method in order to get the best results.

It is important to know the cause of your hair loss to prevent any complications. If your hair loss is caused by a certain internal disease, a treatment may be needed. This will include drugs to reduce inflammation and suppress your immune system. Warning signs should be watched out for. Only your legitimate doctor can treat it properly for you.

Medications are available to treat pattern baldness. Two medications approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to treat hair loss are:

1.            Minoxidil (Rogaine). Minoxidil is an over-the-counter liquid or foam that you rub into your scalp twice a day to grow hair and to prevent further hair loss. It may be used by men and women. With this treatment, some people experience hair regrowth, a slower rate of hair loss or both. The effect peaks at 16 weeks and you need to keep applying the medication to retain benefits. This medication is not allowed to be imported to some countries including Singapore, Jakarta, Indonesia and Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

Possible side effects include scalp irritation, unwanted hair growth on the adjacent skin of the face and hands, and rapid heart rate (tachycardia).

2.            Finasteride (Propecia). This prescription drug is available only to men. It's taken daily in pill form. Many men taking finasteride experience a slowing of hair loss, and some may show some new hair growth. You need to keep taking it to retain benefits.

Rare side effects of finasteride include diminished sex drive and sexual function and an increased risk of prostate cancer. Women who are or may be pregnant need to avoid touching crushed or broken tablets.

There are cases of deaths due to adverse effects of drugs taken without any prescription from the doctor and we would like our readers to be informed of the possible outcome when you continue taking medications which you have little knowledge of. Please review your options cautiously and consult your doctor when side effects occur.