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	Dr. Alan J. Bauman, MD

Dr. Alan J. Bauman is the Founder, Medical Director and Chief Surgeon of the Bauman Medical Group, P.A. located in Wharfside at Boca Pointe in Boca Raton, Florida. His practice is dedicated exclusively to treating male and female pattern hair loss. Dr. Bauman uses state-of-the-art medical and surgical techniques to help his patients maintain and/or restore their scalp hair.

	Question Asked By

Alton
2006-06-15

	Question Topic

Heavy Shedding after 8 months of Propecia

	Question

Dr Bauman - I am 25, and have been on Propecia for about 8 months. When I started the regimine I was on an herbal supplement, minoxidil, and propecia. I had the beginnings of my temples starting to recede. After two months of my regimine, it all came back. I backed off the minoxidil 4 months ago, and the supplements 3 months ago. 1 month ago I noticed I started to shed fairly heavily (like I did when before I got on the meds). And got massive dandruff and itchy scalp problems. I have used T-Gel to negate the dandruff and scalp, but the shedding is still pretty heavy (I estimate 3x normal). Now I am noticing serious thinning along the whole middle of my scalp (and the temples). I am still on the propecia, and have taken it religiously. I did have a violent stomach flu which knocked me out for a good 2 weeks, and the dandruff/itchy scalp came soon after. What is your recommendation? Do I go back on the minoxidil and supplements? What are my chances of getting my hair back? Why hasn't the excessive shedding stopped, even though my scalp is healthier now (not flaking/itchy)? Thanks for your help!! Chris

	Answer

Chris, You probably had more of a result from minoxidil than you thought. It is very common to see significant shedding 4-8 weeks after stopping minoxidil. The stomach flu might have played a role as well--especially if you had some noticeable scalp effects. If the protein or vitamin intake was disrupted, this can have an effect on your hair, for sure. If you're concerned about keeping your hair, I would recommend using the minoxidil in conjunction with the propecia. Typically, it takes about 10 weeks or so for the minoxidil to really get cranking. What is your hair loss status in terms of coverage? Any change in the hairline or visible coverage in the temples or crown areas? Sincerely, Dr. B. doctorb@baumanmedical.com

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