ask your pharmacist

Are there any over-the-counter treatments for hair loss?

Rogaine (the brand name for minoxidil) is the only over-the-counter drug approved to treat hereditary hair loss. It's available in 2 percent and 5 percent liquid solutions that are applied to the scalp. Rogaine works for both hereditary male-pattern baldness and female-pattern hair loss.

To use Rogaine, apply it directly to hair-loss areas of the scalp twice daily.

In medical research studies, 40 percent to 75 percent of men who used Rogaine for 12 months reported new hair growth. Among women who used it for eight months, 46 percent to 60 percent grew new hair.

The most common side effects of Rogaine are itching and skin irritation on the scalp.

Pregnant or nursing women should not use Rogaine. Also, people who are age 18 or younger should not use this product unless directed by a doctor. If you don't have a family history of hair loss, or if your hair loss is patchy or sudden, check with your doctor before trying Rogaine.

Sources:
Micromedex Healthcare Series. Micromedex Inc., 2001.
Rogaine product information, Pharmacia & Upjohn, 1998.
Price, V. "Drug Therapy: Treatment of Hair Loss," New England Journal of Medicine. 341(1999).

This answer prepared 3/16/01.