Dr Amir: Tips for dealing with hair loss
Up to 40 percent of men in the UK are thought to suffer from some level of male pattern baldness – the most common form of hair loss.
While this could be the result of their genetics, there are treatments out there to help prevent and reduce the effects of balding.
Of the various treatment options out there, two of the most popular are finasteride and minoxidil, which can be taken in tablet or spray form.
Like many cosmetic and medical aids they can, however, come with some potential side effects.
Doctor Deborah Lee, from the Dr Fox Online Pharmacy, spoke with Express.co.uk to explain some of the pros and cons of both treatments.
READ MORE Male pattern baldness – first sign of hair loss and how to stop it getting worse
Finasteride
Finasteride (also sold under the brand name Propecia) is not available on the NHS but can be obtained by private prescription.
“It should be taken one mg per day and assessed after four months,” she said.
“After one year if there has not been any appreciable benefit, it should be discontinued. If successful it can be continued indefinitely.”
However, she warned: “Overall, finasteride is well tolerated. But as with any drug, there can be side effects.”
She listed the “most common” side effects as:
- Sexual dysfunction – reduced libido, erectile dysfunction and difficulty with ejaculation – these problems tend to improve over time and usually stop if the drug is discontinued.
- Testicular pain
- Haematospermia (blood in the sperm)
- Breast tenderness and enlargement – men must report any breast changes promptly to their GP – although unproven there may be an increased risk of male breast cancer.
- Depression and suicidal thoughts.
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She also stated that finasteride should not be taken by anyone who is allergic to it or has severe liver disease.
The NHS adds that it is not recommended for women or children.
But Dr Lee, said clinical trials lasting two years found that 83 percent of men who took finasteride experienced no further hair loss and 66 percent actually had an increase in hair growth.
Minoxidil
While oral forms of minoxidil do exist it is more commonly taken in the form of a solution or foam applied to the scalp.
Dr Lee said: “NICE recommends the use of minoxidil 5 percent solution or foam. It can be purchased over the counter without the need for a prescription.”
In some cases it can cause issues with the affected area.
She continued: “Local skin reactions with redness and flaking of the skin on the scalp.
“This is most commonly due to the presence of propylene glycol in the product. If it is severe and/or persistent, treatment should be stopped.”
She added: “Note that the foam does not contain propylene glycol and can be tried as an alternative.
“Take care only to apply the product to the scalp. Inadvertently getting it on the face or elsewhere can lead to unwanted hair growth at these sites.”
Low blood pressure is also “occasionally” reported as a side effect, she said.
She added: “Minoxidil should be used with caution in men with heart disease or known cardiac arrhythmias.”
But it has been shown to be effective. Dr Lee said: “In one preclinical study reported by the manufacturer, 60 percent of male patients were found to have an increase in scalp coverage after 48 weeks of use.
“In one study which included 11,000 minoxidil users, after one year of use, 92 percent said it has been effective in reducing hair loss. Results varied between fair to excellent.”
If you experience any side effects from finasteride or minoxidil you should stop using them and speak to your GP if you have any concerns.
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