Propecia® / Rogaine®

Minoxidil topical (Rogaine®) 2% has been used for more than 15 years and serves primarily to slow excessive hair loss. In humans only, it is suggested a 5% solution is more effective than a 2% solution.

Finasteride (Propecia®) has been available by prescription for approximately 10 years, and studies have shown it is safe and effective at slowing hair loss and stimulating hair growth in a significant number of patients.  Finasteride works to inhibit the production of DHT (a hormone related to hair loss), without interfering with the essential male hormone, testosterone. Adverse effects on libido have been moderate, and recorded in less than 2% of patients. Finasteride appears to more effective during the early stages of hair loss, but has also been shown to help in later stages, slowing the rate of loss.