Rogaine Vs. Propecia
Rogaine and Propecia are the only two FDA-approved hair loss remedies that treat male pattern baldness. While Rogaine is available in over-the-counter in topical form, Propecia is only available by prescription in tablet form. Both work in different ways, and one may be more effective than the other over the long haul. As with any medications of this kind, a person should thoroughly research the pros and cons to decide which method is best to treat his hair loss.
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Identification
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The generic name for Rogaine is minoxidil topical, and the generic name for Propecia is finasteride. Rogaine is an over-the-counter hair loss remedy that comes in an alcohol-based topical solution in either regular (2 percent) or extra strength (5 percent). Rogaine Extra Strength is only intended for use by men, while Rogaine's 2-percent minoxidil solution can also be used by women. Propecia is a prescription drug available only in 1mg tablet form, and it should not be used by women.
Function
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Rogaine regularly applied to a man's scalp increases blood flow by invigorating hair follicle growth and encouraging new hair to grow longer and thicker. Rogaine is only intended for use by men who are experiencing a gradual loss or thinning of hair, resulting in a receding hairline or balding on the top of the head, also known as male pattern baldness. Propecia treats male pattern baldness affecting the vertex and anterior mid-scalp area of a man's head, and it works mainly by preventing testosterone from converting to dihydrotestosterone (DHT).
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Uses
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Rogaine should be applied using an applicator in 1 mL amounts to clean, dry affected areas of the scalp two times a day, usually in the morning after hair is washed and dried, and in the evening, one or two hours before bed. No more than 2 mL should be used in any one day. Rogaine should be applied directly to the scalp and not to the hair itself. Propecia tablets should be taken by mouth with water once a day with or without food.
Time Frame
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Rogaine may take up to four months for the medication to begin to take effect. Positive results usually show as softer and slightly colorless hair that eventually thickens over time. Propecia should be taken once a day for at least three months before positive results can be seen. If a person doesn't experience positive results after taking Propecia regularly for a year, then he should stop taking it.
Precautions
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Rogaine doesn't work near the front hairline or on scalps that are entirely bald. Rogaine should be kept away from a person's eyes, nose and mouth. It also shouldn't be used on any part of the body other than the scalp. Propecia should not be used by women or children. Also, Propecia may adversely affect results of a prostate-specific antigen test to screen for prostate cancer.
Side Effects
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Rogaine may cause a scalp to become irritated and itchy. Rogaine and Propecia may cause allergic reactions such as problems breathing, breaking out in hives, facial swelling, irregular heartbeat, dizziness and lightheadedness or possibly even fainting spells. Propecia may also cause testicle pain, impotence and related sexual problems as well as breast tenderness or swelling.
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