Using Finasteride and Minoxidil Tablets To Treat Hair Loss

Using Finasteride and Minoxidil Tablets To Treat Hair Loss

For those struggling with progressive hair loss and thinning, the medications finasteride and minoxidil offer scientifically-proven treatment options. Both exist in topical solutions but can also be taken effectively as oral tablets.

When used properly, these drugs can slow or even reverse hair follicle miniaturization, extending the anagen growth phase. While not overnight miracles, they provide hope to millions seeking to maintain their locks.

How Oral Finasteride and Minoxidil Tablets Work

Both medications combat hormonal causes of genetic hair loss but through different mechanisms:

• Finasteride - Blocks DHT hormones shrinking follicles
• Minoxidil - Boosts blood flow and nutrients to follicles

Taking these oral medications daily helps create conditions conducive to hair regrowth and thickness.

What Results Can Be Expected?

Consistency remains key. When taken as prescribed for at least 3-4 months, moderate results emerge while maximum effects take closer to a year of daily use:

• Slowing of loss for most users
• Complete halt of loss for many
• Visible regrowth in 50%-60% of users

Gains accumulate gradually and shedding continues initially before progress emerges. Have realistic expectations when starting treatment.

Who Are The Best Candidates?

Those experiencing early stages of progressive loss can derive great benefit from proactive oral treatment. Ideal candidates include:

• Males aged 20-65 with mild to moderate loss on crown/temples
• Looking to prevent advancing baldness/thinning
• Have no health conditions precluding use
• Willing to use medications daily long-term

Patients must accept hair dependent on continued medication use. Quitting restarts loss, shedding most gains within 6-12 months.

Are There Side Effects?

As with any drug, potential adverse reactions deserve consideration. However, studies demonstrate both oral solutions remain well tolerated by most users.

What To Know About Oral Finasteride

Sold under brand names Propecia and Proscar, finasteride tablets were first approved for hair loss treatment in 1997. As an off-label use, doctors now commonly prescribe the 5mg Proscar tablets quartered into ~1.25mg doses.

Mechanism and Dosage

Finasteride blocks conversion of testosterone into follicle-damaging DHT. A daily 1-1.25mg tablet helps scalp DHT levels sufficiently to allow thicker, healthier hair growth.

Potential Side Effects

While often mild and temporary, possible side effects do exist and should be discussed with your prescriber, including:

• Decreased libido - 2.1% of men
• Erectile dysfunction - 1.3% of men
• Decreased ejaculate - lower sperm count and semen volume

Rare side effects like depression and breast tenderness may also occur.

Contraindications

Finasteride cannot be safely used by the following groups:

• Women
• Anyone with liver disease
• Soy allergy suffers

Pregnant women must avoid handling crushed tablets due to risk of birth defects if absorbed.

What To Know About Oral Minoxidil

Originally sold as Loniten to treat high blood pressure, doctors now commonly prescribe off-label oral minoxidil for regrowing hair. Unlike topical solutions, tablets allow the drug to work systemically for better results.

Mechanism and Dosage

Oral minoxidil widens blood vessels to enhance microcirculation around shrinking follicles. This revives their health, allowing thicker regrowth. The standard dosage ranges from 2.5mg-10mg daily.

Potential Side Effects

With higher systemic absorption than topical applications, potential reactions include:

• Low blood pressure/rapid heart rate
• Headaches
• Water retention
• Unwanted facial/body hair growth

Start with the lowest effective dose between 2.5-5mg to assess tolerance. Splitting tablets can help minimize side effects.

Contraindications

Avoid oral minoxidil with:

• Heart/circulatory conditions
• High blood pressure
• Pheochromocytoma - adrenal gland tumor

Weigh risks before proceeding if you have related medical issues. Seek emergency help for fainting, chest pains, or rapid heartbeat.

Using Finasteride and Minoxidil Together

Since these medications work via unique mechanisms, many dermatologists endorse synergizing their effects through combination treatment. Studies show greater hair growth results from dual usage, especially for those experiencing aggressive loss.

The Power Duo

A finasteride + minoxidil regimen provides complementary follicle support:

• Blocks DHT + enhances blood flow/nutrients
• Prevents further miniaturization + revives damaged follicles
• Helps halt current loss + stimulates new growth

Just ensure proper dosing and watch for increased side effects when pairing these oral solutions.

Boosting Results Further

Some doctors stack additional treatments like PRP injections, microneedling, or laser devices for amplified regeneration:

• PRP - Platelet rich plasma activated with skin needling
• Microneedling - Tiny skin punctures boost absorption
• Low level laser - Light therapy revived dormant follicles

Combined oral + topical treatments + in-office procedures offer severely thinning patients their best chance for renewed thickness and density.

Maintaining Realistic Expectations With Treatment

When used properly, oral hair loss solutions like finasteride tablets and minoxidil provide hope against progressive genetic balding. However, a dash of realism sets suitable expectations.

Gradual Gains Take Time and Consistency

This medication offers no overnight miracles. Months of daily adherence allows slower regrowth. Shedding initially is common before gains emerge. Have patience and stick to the treatment plan.

Results Vary Drastically By Individual

Response spectrum spans: none → moderate → exceptional. Genetics dictate your potential peak outcome. Consistency boosts your chances of the best response possible for your anatomy.

Loss Restarts After Quitting Medication

Your renewed follicles remain dependent on the meds. Unless ready to lose regrown hair, prepare for continued, lifelong treatment once started.

Even with realistic expectations established, the ability to slow or pause progressive thinning provides comfort. For many, it buys extra years before considering hair transplants or concealers.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.