Question:
From what I have read on the internet it seems like Propecia is much more effective than Rogaine for stopping hair loss. Is this true?

Answer:
Rogaine or the generic minoxidil and Propecia which is finasteride are two very different medications. First of all, Propecia is a medication that can only be obtained by getting a prescription from a doctor. Rogaine is an over-the-counter topical product.

The Propecia actually blocks the production or the conversion of testosterone to DHT which is dihydrotesterone and has a more direct effect on the genetic component of hair loss.

The mechanism of action for Rogaine is that it is actually a vasodilator and increases blood circulation and blood flow to the scalp or area where it is applied.

They are very different by nature of their mechanism of action. I think, however, that it is generally recognized that Propecia has a stronger affect at slowing down genetic hair loss.

Posted by: Dr. Charles