Androgenic Alopecia, also known as Male and Female Pattern Hair Loss, is the most common cause of hair loss in men and women today. Androgenic Alopecia causes hair loss that mainly affects the front and top of the scalp. This condition affects 70% of men and 40% of women and in some cases can result in psychological distress and a decreased quality of life. The cause of pattern hair loss is often multi-factored.
Treatments for Hair Loss
Two common treatments for hair loss are Minoxidil and Finasteride. Minoxidil is an over-the-counter topical treatment that promotes hair growth by increasing the blood flow to shrinking hair follicles. Finasteride is a prescription oral tablet that reduces the active level of a type of testosterone in the body called dihydrotestosterone (DHT). DHT causes miniaturization and the death of hair follicles. Significant side effects can be associated with finasteride such as loss of libido, depression, erectile dysfunction, and hypogonadism.
Standard, single ingredient treatments take a one-dimensional view of alopecia, whereas multiple factors can be in play with pattern hair loss.
Customized Prescription of Minoxidil and Synergistic Ingredients
A strategy to reduce possible side effects and improve treatment results is to combine multiple ingredients into a synergistic topical treatment applied to the scalp. With a goal to improve results, some prescribers elect to combine Minoxidil and low-dose Finasteride in a topical solution, including other synergistic, hair growth-promoting ingredients. Since the causes of alopecia can be variable, the topical hair compound can be tailored to each patient’s individual needs in an attempt to achieve the best results.
For more information about hair loss and Rx treatments, contact an HDRX clinical pharmacist today (800.836.2303)
