Hair Growth Rogaine

Rogaine (also branded as Regaine outside the US) is the brand name for Minoxidil, when used as a topical drug to treat male pattern baldness. The solution is applied to the scalp daily to stimulate hair growth and help prevent hair loss. It is available over-the-counter (OTC) in the U.S. in a 2% Minoxidil solution and also 5% Minoxidil solution (Rogaine Extra Strength for Men). While the 2% solution can be used by either gender, the 5% solution is recommended for use by men only. Rogaine works in your scalp to enlarge your hair follicles and stimulate hair regrowth.

Clinical studies of the effectiveness of topical Minoxidil have shown both a slowing of hair loss and some regrowth of hair in some (but not all) patients. These studies also show that these measurable changes disappear fairly rapidly (within one to two years) after stopping treatment.

Oral minoxidil can cause a fall in blood pressure, an increase in the heart rate, and weight gain (fluid retention). An increase in the absorption of minoxidil from the scalp can occur in patients with inflamed or abnormal scalps, leading to side effects mentioned above. Patients with heart failure or significant coronary heart disease should avoid Rogaine because of these side effects. Rogaine's alcohol base can irritate the eyes. Rogaine should not be used with other topical medications because they may increase its absorption and side effects. Rogaine should be used with caution in those with high blood pressure.

Several studies have shown that certain non-drug products promote hair regrowth but none have yet been approved by the FDA. This is partly due to the prohibitive costs involved in conducting trials to prove that the products are effective for the purpose of marketing them as hair loss treatments. Many individuals and dermatologists nonetheless recommend use of certain non-drug treatments as an alternative or complement to drug therapy.

In many instances the treatments are based on natural ingredients that stimulate similar responses to those of the prescribed drugs but without the side effects. The information provided here presents a sample of products that have been subjected to testing or at least have had their effectiveness supported by independent feedback.

One such product is Arcon Tisane which has become Europe's top selling natural supplement for hair loss. It comes as a capsule and sub-lingual spray containing saw palmetto and fenugreek stimulating a response similar to that of finasteride by inhibiting the production of DHT. Arcon Tisane has been clinically tested and has received widespread media coverage of its success in combating hair loss.

Treatments

Drugs

Non-Prescription

Shampoos