There aren’t many hair-loss drugs approved by FDA. Only two drugs – Propecia and Rogaine – are approved. They are aimed at arresting hair loss and promoting hair growth. The drugs are also used in conjunction with hair transplant surgery. Propecia is an oral drug, while Rogaine is a topical solution. Both are aimed at suppressing the action of male hormone, testosterone.
The reason why only two drugs have made it is a matter of discussion. Some say it is because the approval process is cost intensive and slow. A drug can get approval only after stringent tests and trials.
There aren’t many other drugs approved by FDA. The alternative medicine market promises more cures. Since they are not authorized or approved by FDA, it is not easy to talk about them. They may work and they may not. As of now, there aren’t any authoritative studies on their effectiveness.
While using hairloss drugs, you will use it alongside hair transplantation surgery. In the earlier stages of hair loss, it can work alone. However, it takes well-controlled administration for more than a year. You need to take the drugs under the guidance of a qualified physician.
Certain drugs can cause hair loss. Drugs prescribed as blood-thinners, gout medicines, thyroid medications, etc can cause side effects including hairloss. Talk to your doctor about changing the drugs as a means of preventing the side effect. You can usually get alternative prescriptions.
Such drugs usually have parts that promote testosterone activity. This male hormone cause gradual thinning and eventual loss of hair. Every time a hair is fallen, this hormone reaches the hair follicle to form dihydrotestosterone. It then weakens the hair follicle, leading to hair thinning.
Sometimes it is not possible to avoid the hair loss. Treatments for cancer and such serious conditions require medications of high dose, radiation and chemotherapy. In such cases, it is normal to experience hairloss. It is a temporary condition. Hair will grow after the treatment is over. However, it is a condition that people, especially women feel bad about. Keep in mind that your health is important and you can always get the hair back.
Another thing is you should be wary of the several drugs and pills coming as hairloss drugs. They may not be the right thing for your health. Check whether they are approved by the FDA and whether it is safe to use the drugs. Don’t go for any snake-oil treatments, as they can damage your health.
There are several suggestions made available prevent hair loss from occurring. Having a healthy lifestyle, healthy eating habits, etc are always recommended. However, the tips are general tips and may not have a direct effect on hair health. It is essential that you identify the real cause of hair loss. If it is for some underlying conditions like diabetes, you need to get treatment for the same.
When it comes to hair loss treatment, there are always some good options. Hair transplantation is one among them. Hairloss drugs are another option. Talk to your doctor and make the right decisions of preserving your hair, without losing your health.