Propecia, also known by it’s chemical or generic name of finasteride, has been used and has been effective  for the treatment of male pattern baldness in men.  What about Propecia’s usefulness for women who suffer from hair loss?  The first research I looked up about Propecia as it relates to use by women was just about a flat out warning that it not intended for use by women for balding problems.

Propecia, at present, is only available by prescription and it is meant only for male patients.   This use, specifically, is how Propecia was approved by the FDA in 1997.
There were several articles that, at first glance, touted the use of Propecia for women.  But after the first article read, I personally, as a woman, would opt for a different remedy, perhaps an herbal remedy for hair loss like Provillus for men and women, because it includes a topical solution as well as an oral one for maximum efficacy.

The next, most obvious choice for treatment for women with either thinning hair or baldness issues, would be minoxidil, or Rogaine.  Rogaine has been available since 1996 and has been shown to be safe and often effective.  Minoxidil is a topical solution, available in a 2% or 5% strength.  The 2% solution is recommended for ues by both men and women. If a woman uses the 2% form and does not attain the desired results, she can next try the 5% solution, but may risk side effects.  Minoxidil, in both the 2% and 5% strength, is available over the counter and is approved by the FDA.  Minoxidil works by stimulating hair follicles to growth.
Minoxidil is applied to a completely dry scalp and you absolutely should not use a hair dryer after application.   Do not shower or shampoo for 2 to 4 hours after application.
While minoxidil is relatively safe, there are possible side efffects. Itching, redness or inflammation of the scalp may occur.  If you keep the dosage to 1 ml. two times a day, you reduce your risk of side effects.  Cost for using this product is approximately $24.00 per month.  If it is effective, it is well worth every penny for a woman with hair loss issues.

This entry was posted on Monday, July 23rd, 2007 at 9:59 pm and is filed under Hair Loss Treatments. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.