Women’s Hair Loss

Patients who used Minoxidil/Spironolactone over a period of 1 year saw a fuller head of hair and decreased fallout. Results were seen within 3 to 6 months and hair shedding was 3 times less than before treatment. The medication should be taken on a daily basis for best results. Patients who skip treatment days, weeks, or months may find that the medication does not work as effectively and does not produce the results they were expecting.

Results will begin appearing after 3-4 months but significant results may not be apparent for 6-9 months after starting the medication. Full results are usually seen approximately 1 year after starting treatment. The medication should be used on a daily basis for best results. Patients who skip treatment days, weeks, or months may find that the medication does not work as effectively and does not produce the results they were expecting.

Minoxidil is a prescription medication used to stimulate hair growth. Minoxidil widens blood vessels which leads to increased blood flow to hair follicles. This improved blood flow, in turn, enhances the follicles’ function and stimulates hair growth in individuals experiencing hair loss.

Spironolactone is a prescription medication that can be prescribed to women who suffer from female pattern hair loss. Spironolactone is known as an anti-androgen. It reduces aldosterone in the body which leads to its anti-androgen effect and encourages hair growth.

Finasteride is a prescription medicine that used to treat female pattern baldness. Finasteride belongs to a group of drugs called 5-alpha reductase inhibitors. It works by blocking the conversion of Testosterone to DHT by up to 70% and therefore lowers DHT levels in the body and at the scalp. Lowering DHT will allow your hair to start the process of growing back.

Side effects are uncommon at the low doses used to treat hair loss.  However, as with all prescription medications, side effects can occur:

• Fluid Retention: Oral minoxidil can lead to fluid retention, causing swelling in the ankles and other parts of the body.
• Increased Heart Rate: It may cause an increase in heart rate, which can be problematic for individuals with certain cardiovascular conditions.
• Hypertrichosis (Excessive Hair Growth): One interesting side effect is increased hair growth. While this is a desired effect when using Minoxidil for hair loss, this hair growth can appear on other parts of the body.
• Pericardial Effusion: There have been reports of oral minoxidil causing fluid accumulation around the heart (pericardial effusion).
• Electrolyte Imbalance: It can lead to electrolyte imbalances in the body.
• Chest Pain: Some individuals may experience chest pain or discomfort.

Side effects of topical Minoxidil typically occur on the scalp and may include:

• Irritation
• Eczema
• Erythema
• Burning
• Dermatitis

Overall, side effects from Spironolactone and low but as with all prescription medications, side effects can occur:

• Hyperkalemia: Spironolactone can lead to elevated levels of potassium in the blood, which can be serious and may require monitoring.
• Dehydration: It can cause dehydration due to increased urination.
• Low Blood Pressure: Some individuals may experience low blood pressure, especially when standing up quickly.
• Dizziness or Lightheadedness: This can be a side effect, particularly when initiating treatment or changing the dosage.
• Menstrual Irregularities: Women may experience changes in their menstrual cycle.
• Breast Tenderness or Enlargement: Spironolactone has anti-androgenic effects, and some individuals may experience breast tenderness or enlargement.
• Gastrointestinal Issues: Nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea are possible side effects.

It is important that women of child-bearing age do not take or handle Finasteride as it may cause birth defects.  The most common side effects of opical Finasteride typically occur on the scalp and may include:

• Scalp Pruritus
• Burning Sensation
• Irritation
• Contact Dermatitis
• Erythema (redness on the skin)

If you forget your daily dose, skip the missed dose and continue your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.

Keep the medication in the original container that you received it in, tightly closed, and out of reach of children. Store it at room temperature and away from excess heat and moisture (not in the bathroom).