Hair Loss Dual Action

Finasteride blocks the action of an enzyme called 5-alpha-reductase. Finasteride blocks the conversion of testosterone to dihydrotestosterone (DHT), the androgen responsible for male pattern hair loss. The effect of finasteride scalp will only last as long as the medicine is taken. When it is stopped, the hair will be lost. Finasteride is available in 1mg tablets.

Regaine is a hair regrowth treatment designed to tackle hair loss and thinning hair. It’s widely recognized for its effectiveness in stimulating hair growth and is particularly used in cases of hereditary hair loss. Regaine’s main active ingredient is Minoxidil, which is known for its ability to rejuvenate hair follicles, potentially increasing both hair density and size.

Regaine comes primarily in two forms: a topical solution and a foam. Both are designed for direct application to the scalp. The foam version is often preferred for its ease of application and quick absorption, while the topical solution might be favored by those who require more precise application.

The recommended dosage is one 1 mg tablet daily. Finasteride may be taken with or without food. Three to six months of once daily treatment are required before evidence of stabilisation of hair loss can be expected. Continuous use is recommended to sustain benefit. If treatment is stopped, the beneficial effects begin to reverse by six months and return to baseline by 9 to 12 months.

To use Regaine foam, the general steps are as follows:

For Men:

1. Wash your hands before applying the foam.
2. Part your hair to expose the scalp, ensuring the scalp is dry.
3. Hold the can upside down and press the nozzle to dispense about half a capful of foam.
4. Rub the foam into your scalp and gently massage it throughout the affected area.
5. Wash your hands after applying.

For best results:

• Use only the recommended dosage, twice a day for men.
• Allow the foam to air dry before styling your hair.
• Consistent use is key to seeing results.

It’s important to note that results can vary, and it may take time to see visible hair regrowth. Initially, there may even be increased hair shedding, which is a normal part of the process. However, if hair loss continues for longer than two weeks, it’s advised to consult a doctor.

For more detailed information, you can refer to Regaine’s official guidelines on their UK website: Regaine for Men,

Finasteride

The active ingredient in Propecia. You can purchase both cheaper finasteride (generic) compared to branded Propecia. Finasteride works by decreasing the production of dihydrotestosterone (DHT).

A hair normally grows from each hair follicle for about three years, sheds and new hair grows from the follicle. DHT is a by product produced by the hair follicle and too much of it causes the hair follicle to shrink causing hair to grow thinner and shed more quickly. This eventually leads to a much smaller hair follicle and a thin hair that does not grow out to the skin surface. Finasteride prevents the conversion of testosterone to dihydrotestosterone. Therefore slows the progression and allows for regrowth. The treatment is only available for men and can also minimize and resolve hair thinning.

Minoxidil

The active ingredient in Regaine and other similar hair loss treatments, is a topical medication that is primarily used to stimulate hair growth and slow balding. It is particularly effective in cases of androgenetic alopecia, also known as pattern baldness, which is a common form of hair loss in both men and women.

The exact mechanism of how minoxidil stimulates hair growth is not fully understood, but several theories exist. It is believed to work by widening the blood vessels in the scalp, which increases blood flow to the hair follicles. This improved blood circulation delivers more oxygen, blood, and nutrients to the hair follicles, potentially revitalizing shrunken hair follicles, increasing their size, and prolonging their growth phase.

Another theory suggests that minoxidil opens potassium channels in the cells, which could lead to increased hair growth. By opening these channels, minoxidil may help to normalize the hair follicle’s growth cycle, transitioning more follicles into the “anagen phase,” which is the active growth phase of hair.

Minoxidil does not cure baldness but can effectively manage the condition if used continuously. It is important to note that while minoxidil can promote hair growth and slow hair loss, its effects are typically temporary. The improvements in hair growth usually only last as long as the treatment is continued. If the use of minoxidil is stopped, the previous pattern of hair loss often returns.

It’s also crucial to understand that minoxidil works best in the early stages of hair loss and is less effective when the area of baldness is large. Therefore, early intervention is key to maximizing the benefits of this treatment.

Finasteride and Propecia are generally well tolerated. We do not recommend finasteride to men who a hypersensitive to finasteride or who have severe liver disease.

Common side effects of finasteride include: decreased libido, erectile dysfunction, and ejaculation disorder. Sexual dysfunction tends to occur during the first year of treatment and decreases with the duration of treatments and resolved when treatment is discontinued. Mood alterations have been reported and patients should stop taking the medication if feeling depressed or if you develop any suicidal ideation.

You must speak to a clinician immediately if you experience a lump in your chest or breast. For full side effects please refer to the patient information leaflet.

On rare occasions seek medical attention if you experience depression, breast enlargement, tenderness, lumps, or nipple discharge, pain in the testicles. Please see more advice from the MHRA regarding potential risk of male breast cancer.

While Minoxidil is effective for many, it can have side effects. Common ones include itching, redness, and irritation at the application site. Some individuals experience unwanted facial/body hair growth. More rare but serious side effects include rapid heart rate, dizziness, fainting, or swelling of hands/feet. Allergic reactions, though uncommon, might present as rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, or trouble breathing. It’s crucial to use minoxidil as directed and consult a healthcare provider if you notice any concerning symptoms.

Data suggests that men who are younger who have been balding for a shorter period with smaller areas of baldness may respond to treatment sooner. However, there is no firm evidence and all responses to treatment are individual.

Stabilization of hair loss can be expected following continuous use of Finasteride for 3-6 months. By the end of the year you should notice clear signs of hair regrowth. You will notice peak hair growth after 2 years, but treatment must be continued to maintain results. The beneficial effects begin to reverse by 6 months and return to before taking medication by 9-12 months.

Hair loss may occur due to an underlying cause. Patients should visit the GP if they suffer from the following as treatment of the underlying cause normally allow hair to regrow:

• Any profound shedding or rapid onset of hair loss
• Absent or reduced eyebrows or eyelashes
• Inflammation, papules or pustules, scaling or scarring of the scalp
• Severe infection, iron deficiency or hypothyroidism
• Some medication such as antidepressants or anticoagulants
• Change in diet or rapid weight loss
• Patients who are planning to father a child should consider to stop treatment.

Regaine (Minoxidil) is readily available over the counter from pharmacies.

Finasteride is a prescription only medicine and can only be prescribed by a clinician. Unfortunately, all hair loss treatments are not available to prescribe from the NHS and therefore GPs will charge for a private consultation and a prescription. You will also pay for the medication from a pharmacy. However The Family Chemist clinician can prescribe both Finasteride (Propecia) and Regaine free of charge and only charge for the medicines and have it delivered to you in 24 hours.

Finasteride 1 mg Film-coated Tablets – Patient Information Leaflet (PIL)

Hair loss – NHS (www.nhs.uk)

Alopecia UK Support Group

British Association of Dermatologists (bad.org.uk)

British Hair and Nail Soceity Leaflet