If I Take Propecia (Finasteride) for my Hair Loss, Why Use Rogaine (Minoxidil) Too?

This question comes from a member of our hair loss social community and discussion forums:

If I’m currently treating my hair loss with Propecia (finasteride), why should I also use Rogaine (minoxidil)? Do these drugs work differently? Do they work well together?

According to most hair loss sufferers and hair restoration experts, finasteride and minoxidil have a synergistic effect when used together.

This is likely because minoxidil and finasteride fight hair loss by two different and distinct mechanisms: finasteride decreases the levels of dihydrotestosterone (DHT) – the “hair loss hormone” – in the blood by blocking the 5-alpha-2-reductase enzyme responsible for converting testosterone to DHT. Minoxidil, though not fully understood, likely increases crucial blood supply to the follicles and provides the oxygen and nutrients necessary for proper growth and cycling.

Because both these medications are proven safe and effective (by the FDA) and attack hair loss differently, these medications usually work together to create comprehensive hair loss stabilization and prevention. Because of this, many hair restoration physicians do recommend that patients use finasteride and minoxidil together (in the absence of side effects). Additionally, if hair loss sufferers are interested in using both, or either, of these trusted medications to combat their progressive hair loss, a consultation with a trusted hair restoration physician is highly recommended.

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Blake Bloxham – formerly “Future_HT_Doc”

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

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