What are the Medical Management Options for Hair Loss?
Effective medical management of hair loss depends on finding the underlying cause. A qualified hair doctor or dermatologist will be able to provide an accurate diagnosis based on reviewing your signs and symptoms, performing an examination of your scalp, and testing the strength of your hair. If vitamin deficiency, hormonal imbalance, or an infection is determined to be causing the hair loss, treating the condition will help prevent the hair loss. Aside from this, the various medical management options for hair loss include the following:
Minoxidil for Management of Hair Loss
Minoxidil is an over-the-counter medication available as a liquid, foam, or shampoo. The product should be applied to the scalp once a day for women and twice a day for men. Minoxidil may help slow down or stop hair loss and stimulate regrowth of hair. It should be used for about 6 months for noticeable results. The medication must be used regularly to maintain benefits. Possible side effects include irritation of the scalp and unwanted hair growth on adjacent areas of skin. Using the medication as directed by your doctor will help maximize outcomes.
Finasteride for Management of Hair Loss
This is a prescription medication that is available in pill form. This medication is generally prescribed for men. It should be used for a few months before it begins slowing down hair loss and causing hair regrowth. Finasteride may not be very effective for men about 60 years of age. Side effects from the medication are very rare, but they do exist and include diminished sex drive and sexual function, and increased risk of prostate cancer.
Antiandrogens for Management of Hair Loss
These are prescription medications that inhibit the action of male sex hormones (androgens) which can damage hair follicles. These include oral contraceptives or birth control pills containing estrogen. The beneficial effects of antiandrogens in preventing hair loss and causing hair growth are seen after about 4 months of use. Long-term treatment is usually necessary to prevent the recurrence of hair loss. The medication is contraindicated for women who want to get pregnant. Possible side effects include irregular menses and drowsiness.
Corticosteroids for Management of Hair Loss
These are prescription medications that may be indicated for the treatment of hair loss caused due to autoimmune disorders that damage hair follicles such as alopecia areata, discoid lupus erythematosus, and lichen planopilaris. Corticosteroids suppress inflammation and other harmful effects produced by a disordered immune system. They may be used as topical creams or injected into the scalp. The injection treatments are given every 4-6 weeks. Results of treatment are usually apparent within 1-2 months. These medications should be taken only as recommended as they can cause side effects such as rash, puffiness, and thinning of the skin on the scalp.
Antifungal Medications for Management of Hair Loss
These medications are used for medical management of hair loss due to fungal infections such as scalp ringworm or tinea capitis. These must be taken in tablet form as instructed by your doctor for at least 1 month to completely cure the fungal infection. Antifungal creams and shampoos are also available. The medications are usually well tolerated, and side effects are quite rare but may include rash, stomach upset, and diarrhea.
Antibiotics and Hair Loss
Prolonged use of antibiotics such as penicillin and erythromycin have been known to trigger hair loss. If it is determined that hair loss is caused using certain antibiotics, alternating antibiotic medications may be an option. Stopping medications that cause hair loss or use of alternate medications should only be done as recommended by your doctor.
