There are many creams, ointments, lotions, nutrition supplements, scalp stimulants and other proclaimed cures that promise to halt and reverse hair loss. However, there are only two medications that have been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration and recommended by Dr Barr and other hair restoration physicians. Hair restoration products not approved by the FDA are often a waste of money and may be harmful.

Propecia

Propecia ® is an FDA-approved prescription oral medication that blocks the conversion of testosterone to dihydrotestosterone (DHT), the hormone that causes male pattern baldness. Finasteride is the active ingredient in Propecia and has been in use for prostate enlargement since 1984. Finasteride inhibits the action of the 5-alpha reductase enzyme that is present in higher concentration in and around the hair follicles of men suffering from androgenic alopecia (male pattern baldness). By inhibiting the action of this enzyme, the DHT levels are lower and therefore cannot cause the same effect on susceptible receptors on the follicles.

Clinical studies on Finasteride has shown a benefit of reducing hair loss in over 90% of patients to a certain degree. It is a complimentary treatment to patients undergoing hair transplantation, especially the younger patients. The benefit of using this medication will last as long as it is being taken . Dr. Barr's experience suggest that there are significant benefits from using propecia on a long term basis. 

Rogaine

Rogaine is a drug that works for both men and women, although women usually experience more success with it. Initially, it was used to treat high blood pressure but, soon after, a side effect of increased hair was noted. Currently, it is used topically to decrease hair loss and, in some cases, to increase hair density.

The active agent in Rogaine® is a drug called Minoxidil. Minoxidil (2% and 5%) is a solution/foam that is applied topically to the scalp twice a day. The greatest benefit from the medication is seen from 5 months to 2 years, with gradual decrease in effectiveness after that time.

Although the mechanism by which Minoxidil stimulates hair growth is not fully understood, it has been suggested that it works by prolonging the hair follicle growth cycle, which increases the length of the anagen stage. While Minoxidil will not grow hair in areas that are bald, it will increase the diameter and length of miniaturized (fine) hair. As with Finasteride, Minoxidil is only effective as long as it is being used.