Bimatoprost (Latisse) For Hair Loss?

This question comes from the Non Surgical Treatments for Baldness section of the Hair Restoration Discussion Forum:

I was wondering if anyone had further information on the drug Bimatoprost? Does it have any effectiveness in treating scalp hair loss? Thanks.

Traditionally, Bimatoprost is a medication used in the treatment of eye diseases like glaucoma and ocular hypertension (high blood pressure in the eye). However, in 2008 the compound, marketed under the name Latisse, was approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the cosmetic purpose of lengthening and darkening eyelashes. Shortly after Latisse demonstrated significant eyelash growth and darkening, individuals immediately began to question its potential in restoring scalp hair and fighting baldness.

Although many suspect ongoing research, the drug is currently not proven effective in fighting male pattern baldness or female hair loss. Latisse may demonstrate some significance in thickening miniaturized hairs, but cannot grow new hair follicles, meaning it should have no effect on bald scalp. Furthermore, Latisse does not contain any ingredients known to cease or stop ongoing hair loss. Because of this, clinically proven and FDA approved therapies, such as Minoxidil (Rogaine) and Finasteride (Propecia/Proscar) are a better option at this point in time. However, future research may reveal Bimatoprost and Latisse as important tools in medical hair restoration.