AGA (Male Pattern Hair Loss)

What Is Male Pattern Hair Loss?

AGA (Androgenetic Alopecia: male pattern hair loss) is a condition in which, under the influence of male hormones, the hair on the crown and front of the head gradually thins and hair loss progresses. It often develops after puberty, and although it progresses slowly, the amount of hair gradually decreases if left untreated. In recent years, the cause has been understood to some extent, and it has become possible to suppress its progression with oral treatment.

Oral treatment

Finasteride (Propecia®) / Dutasteride (Zagallo®)

Both are oral drugs called “5α-reductase inhibitors” that suppress the conversion of testosterone into dihydrotestosterone (DHT) and prevent the progression of hair loss.

• Finasteride (Propecia®, etc.): inhibits type II 5α-reductase, which is abundant in the scalp. Its effect in suppressing the progression of AGA has been confirmed.
• Dutasteride (Zagallo®, etc.): inhibits both type I and type II and is said to suppress the production of DHT efficiently.

Guide to effect: it generally takes about three to six months to feel the effect. Continuous use is recommended.

Main side effects: decreased libido, erectile dysfunction, breast discomfort or pain, and changes in liver function have been reported. Rarely, depressive symptoms may accompany it. We carry out regular follow-up during use; if there is any change in your condition, please consult the doctor.

Precautions: because a pregnant woman touching the drug may affect the fetus (a male child), do not crush or split the tablets. If you stop taking it, the condition tends to gradually return to its original state over a few months to a year.

Minoxidil (2.5 mg / 5 mg)

Originally developed as a drug for high blood pressure, this ingredient is known to promote blood flow to the hair follicles through its vasodilatory action and aid hair growth. At our clinic, after a doctor’s examination and confirming safety, we prescribe 2.5 mg or 5 mg of minoxidil.

Guide to effect: many people feel an increase in fine hair and an improvement in hair thickness in three to six months, though this varies by individual. A synergistic effect can be expected by combining it with finasteride or dutasteride, which have a hair-loss-suppressing action.

Main side effects: excess hair (increased facial and body hair), swelling, palpitations, headache, weight gain, low blood pressure, etc. Those with heart or kidney disease need to use it with caution. We carry out regular examinations and monitoring.

Topical treatment (Ell-Cranell)

It is also possible to use “Ell-Cranell®,” a topical drug that acts directly on the scalp to suppress DHT, in combination. It can be used by both men and women and is mainly intended to suppress the progression of hair loss. For details, please see “Ell-Cranell®” in the “FAGA (Female Pattern Hair Loss)” section below.

Treatment Process

1. 1. Examination by a doctor
2. 2. Blood test (as needed)
3. 3. Selection and prescription of oral and topical medications
4. 4. Regular follow-up (every 3–6 months)

For those who wish, our clinic delivers blood test results via MeDaCa along with the doctor’s comments.

Please Note

AGA medications are not covered by insurance (self-pay). Treatment effects vary by individual, and not everyone will obtain a hair-growth effect. At our clinic, we provide treatment with attention to safety after checking the patient’s condition and medical history.