Hair Growth Medication Sydney

Minoxidil, the primary topical solution for hair growth, works by enhancing blood flow to the hair follicles, creating an optimal environment for growth. Here’s a closer look at how minoxidil functions:

Minoxidil

Minoxidil is applied directly to the scalp, helping to stimulate hair follicles and encourage new growth through increased blood circulation. Below is how minoxidil achieves these results:

• Enhanced Blood Flow: Minoxidil may improve circulation in the scalp, which delivers essential nutrients to hair follicles, promoting their growth.
• Prolonged Growth Phase: Minoxidil may help more hair follicles enter and remain in the growth phase, leading to fuller, healthier hair.
• Usage and Consistency: For the best results, it’s typically recommended to apply minoxidil once or twice a day, depending on your treatment plan.
• Potential Side Effects: Minoxidil is generally safe, but some users may experience mild side effects like scalp dryness or irritation.

In rare cases, improper application may cause unwanted hair growth in other areas. Always follow instructions carefully and consult your healthcare provider if any side effects arise.

Finasteride

Finasteride and dutasteride are both oral medications that are commonly used to treat hair loss in men. They belong to a class of drugs called 5-alpha-reductase inhibitors, which work by blocking the conversion of testosterone to dihydrotestosterone (DHT). DHT is a hormone that is known to cause hair follicles to shrink, leading to hair loss.

Finasteride is approved by the TGA for the treatment of male pattern baldness and is typically prescribed as a 1 mg tablet to be taken once daily. It has been shown to be effective in up to 80% of men, with results typically seen within 3-6 months of starting treatment. However, it is important to note that the effects of finasteride are not permanent, and hair loss may resume once treatment is discontinued.

Dutasteride is another 5-alpha-reductase inhibitor that is sometimes used off-label for the treatment of hair loss. It works in a similar way to finasteride but is more potent and has a longer half-life, meaning that it stays in the body for a longer period of time. Some studies have suggested that dutasteride may be more effective than finasteride for hair loss, but it is not yet approved by the TGA for this purpose. As with finasteride, dutasteride is not a permanent solution to hair loss and must be continued indefinitely to maintain results.

While both finasteride and dutasteride have been shown to be effective in the treatment of hair loss, they are not without potential side effects. The most common side effects include decreased libido, erectile dysfunction, and breast tenderness or enlargement. These side effects are typically reversible once treatment is discontinued, but it is important to discuss the potential risks and benefits of these medications with the Surgeons at Hair Transplant Clinics Australia before starting treatment.