Originally an oral medication for the treatment of high blood pressure, Rogaine is rubbed into the scalp to treat male pattern baldness. It’s available over-the-counter in pharmacies in two formulations, regular and extra-strength, containing 2% and 5% of the active ingredient, minoxidil, respectively. About one millilitre is massaged into the dry scalp twice a day.

Approximately one-third of men can expect minimal to moderate regrowth and almost one in 10 dense regrowth when using regular-strength Rogaine. About 80% of men can expect a reduction in the rate of further hair loss. Extra-strength Rogaine has been shown to increase the rate of regrowth in the short term, but over time, less difference has been observed between the two formulations. One drawback is that it can take between six and 12 months to see any effect and, as with Propecia, you have to keep using Rogaine in order to keep any regrown hair, otherwise it will start to shed within six months of not using it.

Side effects

Very few side effects are associated with Rogaine, although 2% of men experience scalp dryness, itching or contact dermatitis when using regular-strength (6% using extra-strength). Because minoxidil applied to the scalp doesn’t enter the blood system significantly, it’s believed to be safe, and one study indicated that over a five-year period of application to the scalp, monoxidil was in fact safe.

For women?

A small number of women experience hair loss similar to male pattern baldness. Rogaine for Women is formulated to deal with this problem and is claimed to be effective.
A price survey in Sydney showed that the cost of Rogaine can vary considerably, so it’s worth shopping around. Expect to pay $50–$65 for Rogaine Regular Strength and $60–$80 for Rogaine Extra Strength (one month’s supply of each). A three-month supply of Rogaine Extra Strength (a triple pack) can cost $145–$185. While still expensive, this makes it likely to be cheaper than Propecia.