When Propecia hit pharmacy shelves this year, it brought to the balding population a huge promise–and plenty of questions. Here are the facts about the first and only hair regrowth pill.

Does it work? Propecia (generic name finasteride) shows great promise for men. In clinical trials of 1,879 balding men, more than 80% of those taking Propecia experienced no hair loss during the two year period–even better, 66% showed hair regrowth. In some men, results were seen in three months, but it may take longer. (more…)

Q. What pharmacological agents are available for male pattern baldness?

A. Male pattern baldness (MPB) is an extremely common condition. Hair loss in males may begin in the late teens or early 20s, and, by the age of 35 to 40, approximately 66% of male Caucasians will display some degree of hair loss. It is a familial condition and has genetic and hormonal etiologies. Typical presentation includes hair loss beginning in the lateral frontal areas or over the vertex. It may be extensive, depending on the person’s age at the time of onset. It is now believed that hair loss can be attributed to the action of dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a metabolite of testosterone. This metabolic conversion, catalyzed by the enzyme 5-alpha reductase, takes place in the scalp. The activity level of 5-alpha reductase has been shown to adversely affect hair follicles and correlate with increased hair loss. (more…)