Off-Label Treatments

There are several off-label treatments for hair loss. Aldactone, Avodart and Retin-A are only a few of the possible off label treatments you can find on the internet. These three medications are available with a prescription only. Most of the medications are not strictly for hair loss. Hair loss treatments are generally an addition to the medication.

Aldactone is used to remove the excess fluid caused by congestive heart failure, cirrhosis of the liver, and kidney disease. Some of the side effects include enlargement of the breasts, diarrhea, cramps, drowsiness, rash, impotence, irregular menstrual periods, and hair growth. Women usually use it to treat their hair loss. Aldactone is significantly more effective than finasteride in the treatment of androgenetic alopecia. Topical Aldactone will slow down or stop hair loss. Doctors also frequently prescribe Aldactone for acne, pattern baldness and hirsutism in women.

Avodart is for men only. Avodart is an effective hair growth stimulant. Avodart is perceived to be better than Propecia. A dose of 2.5 mg daily is shown to have the best results. Women and children should never use Avodart. Avodart can pass through the skin. Pregnant women or women who may be pregnant should not touch Avodart as it may cause a birth defect in their male baby. Men should not give blood until six months after their last dose to ensure any pregnant women do not get Avodart through their donation. Side effects of Avodart are impotence, decrease in libido, decrease in ejaculation, and possible breast enlargement. The side effects decrease over time and usage.

Retin-A, in the right doses and combined with Minoxidil, is an effective hair growth stimulator. Retin-A’s main side effects are itching and scaling of the skin. If too much of too strong a dose is applied, hair loss will increase. It is best to start on a small patch to see if irritation develops. If little or no irritation develops, increase the size of the area. Retin-A can also be used with Rogaine. In fact, it may increase the performance of Rogaine. It is strongly suggested that retin-a is used in conjunction with another hair loss medication.

These three medications are excellent choices for hair loss treatments. Ensure that you know what you are diagnosed with, what medication you are taking, how to apply it, and how often. Side effects are not something you want to deal with. If persistent side effects continue, stop treatment and see your doctor.