Are There Alternatives to Hair Loss Drug Propecia (Finasteride)?

I have experienced severe sexual side effects from taking Propecia. Are there any effective alternatives?

Propecia (finasteride) inhibits the conversion of testosterone to DHT, the hormone responsible for male pattern baldness. There are other DHT inhibitors such as the drug Avodart (dutasteride) and the herbal supplement saw palmetto.  Avodart will likely cause the same side effects as Propecia. You may find saw palmetto more tolerable bu it is far less likely to be as effective.

The only other hair loss drug that is FDA approved and clinically proven to regrow hair is Rogaine (minoxidil). Minoxidil works by increasing blood flow to hair follicles, resulting in thicker and more robust hairs. Because Rogaine does no inhibit DHT, there are no sexual side effects to deal with.

You may also wish to explore other treatments like platelet rich plasma (PRP) or low level laser therapy (LLLT). However, none of these alternatives are considered as effective as Propecia.

David
Editorial Assistant and Forum Co-Moderator for the Hair Transplant Network, the Coalition Hair Loss Learning Center, and the Hair Loss Q & A Blog.

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