Expert: Michael S. Fisher, <B>Ph.D., M.D.</B> - 10/30/2009

Question
I'm only 21 years old and already have thinning  hair, and a mild receding hairline..i would be satisfied with maintaining my hair at this point. I am a very competitive athlete and therefore don't want to take propecia which would  lower my DHT--a key hormone in athletic performance and sexual drive. Therefore, Rogaine is my only option, I was just wondering, how effective would Rogaine be for maintaining and hopefully regorwing my hair on the frontal hair line, and my receding hairline, also will rogaine lose it's effectiveness over time, if so, how long?..I have heard so many differing opinions and answers it's really hard for me to know the right answer.

Answer
33% of the patients using Rogaine grow hair, another 33% will stop hair loss and about 33% see no effect with the medication.  Thus, you have a 66% chance that the Rogaine will help your condition.  You must use Rogaine for 9-12 months to see if it is effective.