Hair Loss Medications: Finasteride, Minoxidil & More for Canadians

Finasteride is the most effective medication for male pattern hair loss. It works by blocking the conversion of testosterone to DHT — the hormone that causes hair follicles to shrink and eventually stop producing hair. How it works: Reduces DHT levels by approximately 70% Effectiveness: Stops further hair loss in 90% of men; regrows hair in 65% Dosage: 1mg daily (oral tablet) Cost in Canada: $30-$60 CAD/month (generic) Availability: Prescription required Side effects: Most men experience no side effects. A small percentage (2-4%) report decreased libido or erectile dysfunction, which typically resolves after stopping the medication. For transplant patients: Many surgeons recommend finasteride to protect non-transplanted hair from continued loss. This can significantly extend the life of your transplant results.

Minoxidil is a topical treatment that stimulates hair growth by increasing blood flow to hair follicles. How it works: Widens blood vessels in the scalp, delivering more nutrients to follicles Effectiveness: Slows hair loss in most users; regrows hair in 40-60% Dosage: 5% solution or foam, applied twice daily to the scalp Cost in Canada: $20-$50 CAD/month Availability: Over-the-counter (no prescription needed) Side effects: Scalp irritation, dryness, and initial shedding (temporary) are the most common. Rarely, some users experience unwanted facial hair growth. For transplant patients: Can be used on non-transplanted areas starting 2 weeks after surgery. Some surgeons recommend applying to the transplanted area after month 3 to accelerate growth.

Using finasteride and minoxidil together is more effective than either alone: - Finasteride blocks DHT (prevents further loss) - Minoxidil stimulates growth (promotes regrowth) - Combined, they address hair loss from two different angles Many hair transplant surgeons recommend combination therapy for patients who want to maximise their results and protect their investment. Cost of combination therapy in Canada: $50-$110 CAD/month

Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT): Devices like the iRestore or Capillus use red light to stimulate hair follicles. Evidence is mixed but some patients report benefits. Cost: $300-$1,000 CAD for a device. Dutasteride: A more potent DHT blocker than finasteride. Used off-label for hair loss. More effective but with a higher side effect profile. Prescription required. Ketoconazole shampoo: Anti-fungal shampoo that may have mild anti-DHT effects when used on the scalp. Available over-the-counter (Nizoral). Supplements: Biotin, zinc, iron, and vitamin D support hair health but won't stop genetic hair loss on their own. Best used alongside medication.