When hair loss starts to creep into our lives, it can leave us feeling disheartened and eager to find a solution that works. If you’ve sought hair loss medications to regain a full head of hair, you’ve likely heard of Oral Hair Loss Medication.
What is Oral Hair Loss Medication?
Oral Hair Loss Medication initially developed as an oral treatment for hypertension. However, its unexpected side effect of stimulating hair growth led to its repurposing as a hair loss treatment, also known as topical Minoxidil.
Low dose Oral Hair Loss Medication is the oral version of this medication. It treats hair loss by dilating blood vessels, increasing blood flow, and promoting hair follicle stimulation, which can lead to hair growth.
In Singapore, topical minoxidil is still first line therapy for male pattern hair loss and available over the counter. Oral Hair Loss Medication may be a suitable option for those who cannot tolerate or are unable to see satisfactory results from Topical Minoxidil.
How is Oral Hair Loss Medication different from Topical Minoxidil?
Convenience of application
Topical Minoxidil involves direct application to the scalp. This requires a fair amount of conscientiousness on the patient’s end as the medication must be applied twice daily. For patients who frequently travel, this process can be quite troublesome. Lastly, depending on your area of hair loss, applying topical Minoxidil may require some assistance.
As a pill that’s ingested once a day, Oral Hair Loss Medication is a lot more convenient and can be packed easily.
Efficacy
Topical Minoxidil and Oral Hair Loss Medication have demonstrated efficacy in promoting hair growth. However, as Oral Hair Loss Medication is taken orally, some patients find it easier to be compliant with treatment.
A study observed a 12% increase in hair density among subjects who underwent a 24-week Oral Hair Loss Medication treatment regimen.
Cost-effectiveness
Oral Hair Loss Medication is cheaper than most topical foams/solutions for the same duration of use. This cost will make a significant difference if you intend to be on hair loss medication for some time.
Neat and seamless
Oral Hair Loss Medication will not stain bedding, clothing etc as with topical minoxidil.
Even coverage
Patients who tend to miss out applying certain areas of topical minoxidil on the scalp may find resolve with Oral Hair Loss Medication. When ingested orally, it also allows for more widespread follicular accumulation.
When is Oral Hair Loss Medication recommended?
The decision to pursue Oral Hair Loss Medication as a hair loss treatment should be made in consultation with a qualified healthcare professional. Besides the reasons outlined above, there are specific scenarios where Oral Hair Loss Medication might be recommended:
- When topical treatments yield suboptimal results
- When other options have been exhausted
- When compliance with treatment is unmanageable
What type of hair loss can Oral Hair Loss Medication treat?
Oral Hair Loss Medication is most ideal for male pattern hair loss. However, it also has other indications such as female pattern hairloss and alopecia areata.
However, its effectiveness may vary from person to person, and not everyone will experience similar results.
Contraindications
Individuals with certain medical conditions, such as those with a history of arrhythmia or those with a significant cardiac condition or chronic kidney or chronic liver disease are not good candidates for Oral Hair Loss Medication.
To determine if Oral Hair Loss Medication is suitable for you, your doctor may consider:
- Your health profile
- Your likely adherence to treatment
- Your expectations
It is therefore crucial to discuss your medical history with a doctor before considering this treatment.
Oral Hair Loss Medication treatment process
If your doctor determines Oral Hair Loss Medication suits you, they will prescribe the appropriate dosage. Typically, treatment begins with a low dose of 0.25-2.5 mg that is gradually increased while closely monitoring the response and any side effects. It may be used in combination with other hair loss treatments like lasers, microneedling or FUE hair transplant.
Regular follow-up appointments are crucial to assess your progress and address any concerns.
Where to buy Oral Hair Loss Medication in Singapore
In Singapore, Oral Hair Loss Medication is a special access prescription medication that must be obtained through a healthcare professional. You must consult a doctor to determine if Oral Hair Loss Medication suits you.
Read more about Oral Hair Loss Medication here
Price/Cost Of Oral Hair Loss Medication In Singapore
A bottle of Oral Hair Loss Medication (100 tablets) costs $163.5 at SL Aesthetic Clinic.
FAQ
How long does it take to see results from Oral Hair Loss Medication?
Upon commencing Oral Hair Loss Medication, it is normal to experience initial hair shedding during the initial 1-2 months. Following this phase, noticeable indications of hair regrowth become apparent within 4-8 months, and the complete effects tend to become consistent after approximately 12-18 months. However, individual reactions may differ. It is crucial for patients to refrain from discontinuing the medication prematurely and to have a clear understanding of the anticipated timeline for achieving hair regrowth.
Is a prescription required for Oral Hair Loss Medication in Singapore?
Oral Hair Loss Medication is a prescription medication in Singapore and should only be used under medical supervision.
What is the recommended dosage of Oral Hair Loss Medication?
Oral Hair Loss Medication is available in tablets at a recommended dosage of 0.25-2.5mg.
Can Oral Hair Loss Medication be used by both men and women?
Yes, both men and women can use Oral Hair Loss Medication.
Are there side effects?
The most common side effect of Oral Hair Loss Medication is hair growth at other parts of the body – but nothing too extreme that regular shaving or laser hair removal cannot resolve.
Rare side effects include:
- Leg swelling
- Postural blood pressure changes
- Heart rate changes
However, these side effects typically occur at high dosages.
Can Oral Hair Loss Medication be combined with other hair loss medication?
Oral Hair Loss Medication may be combined with hair loss supplements like MIRIQA; however, it is advised to consult your practitioner before taking any supplements.
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