Two-thirds of men experience some degree of hair loss by the age of 35 years. Androgenetic alopecia, or male pattern baldness, accounts for 95 percent of all hair loss in men, according to the American Hair Loss Association (AHLA). Male pattern baldness usually presents as a receding hairline and thinning hair on the top, or crown, of the head. Over time, the hair loss becomes more significant, with most men left with nothing more than a horseshoe ring of hair around the sides and back of the head. Treatment involves medication or hair replacement.
Propecia (Finasteride)
Propecia, or finasteride, is approved by the FDA for the treatment of androgenic alopecia in men. Originally developed to treat prostate enlargement, the medication works against hair loss by inhibiting type II 5-alpha-reductace, the enzyme responsible for converting testosterone into androgen dihydrotestosterone, or DHT. The AHLA states that a 1 mg dose of Propecia effectively lowers DHT levels by about 60 percent when taken every day. Using Propecia decreases sex drive, according to Drugs.com, and hair loss typically resumes after stopping the medication.
Rogaine (Minoxidil)
Rogaine, or monoxidil, is a topical medication that slows hair loss and may help regrow hair in some people. Drugs.com states that daily use of Rogaine is necessary for at least six months before any beneficial effects occur. While this medication is effective for some men suffering from hair loss, the benefits are nearly always temporary and baldness tends to recur, according to the AHLA. Rogaine is available in 2 or 5 percent strength.
Nizoral Shampoo (Ketaconazole)
Nizoral shampoo contains ketaconazole, an anti-fungal agent with anti-androgen properties, according to the AHLA. It may help slow or stop hair loss by reducing levels of testosterone and other androgen hormones. The New Zealand Dermatological Society states that Nizoral also helps treat hair loss caused by seborrheic dermatitis. Nizoral shampoo causes no significant side effects, and is available in over-the-counter 1 percent strength, or in 2 percent strength by prescription.
Hair Replacement
Hair replacement is an option for men who cannot or will not take medication to treat hair loss. Non-surgical hair replacement options include hairpieces, toupees and strand-by-strand insertion systems, and hairpieces are widely available in salons. However, nearly three-quarters of men are displeased with the quality and service provided by hair replacement salons, cautions the ALHA. Surgical hair restoration or transplantation is a more permanent hair replacement option that works by grafting DHT-resistant hair follicles and surrounding tissue onto balding areas of the scalp. The grafts are harvested from the back of the head.
