Propecia (Finasteride) "For Men Only" Confirmed In New Study
05/04/98

Press Release: DesMoines, Iowa, March 3, 1998 -- Regrowth (http://www.regrowth.com) this week is publishing the results presented at the American Academy of Dermatology Meeting regarding new results for Propecia, the latest treatment for hair loss, and the newly approved stronger form of Rogaine, Rogaine Extra Strength.

Keith Kaufman, senior director of clinical research in endocrinology and metabolism for Merck, presented results of the combined studies for Propecia, the oral pill approved in December for hair loss. The studies included the new 2 year results for the anterior midscalp (the area just behind the normal, nonbalding hairline). Studies were conducted on 326 men aged 20-41 with an average age of 25. All had mild to moderate frontal thinning. Hair counts were done in a one centimeter diameter circle. After one year, the hair count had a significant increase in hairs per centimeter. After two years a small improvement was seen. Patients on placebos showed a moderate decrease in hairs. After one year, patients on the placebo were put onto Propecia and showed an increase of hair above baseline by the end of the second year. After two years, 42% of men were rated as having slight to moderate improvement and 53% were rated as having no visible hair loss. 5% of men showed a visible decrease in hair.

New data on Propecia also shows that in the men experiencing side effects, 58% of those continuing the treatment stopped experiencing the side effects and all who stopped the treatment stopped experiencing them.

Dr. Ronald J. Trancik, Ph.D. of Pharmacia & Upjohn (NYSE: PNU) presented results of multiple studies on 5% Minoxidil Topical Solution. Upjohn performed hair counts in a 2 centimeter square area. Studies showed 40% of men achieved moderate to dense results and 22% of men achieved minimal regrowth. A 120 week study showed that continued results were seen after over 2 years. Also presented were safety test results. Studies showed that the amount of Minoxidil absorbed into the blood stream was about 15 times less than the amount required to have an effect on blood pressure.

John Ertel, the President of Regrowth and a long term Propecia and Minoxidil 5% user, noted, "These results clearly show that Propecia is modestly effective for many men in the front and very effective in the back. Only early studies have been done on the combination, but from the responses I hear from other users, the best results can be seen by using BOTH Propecia and Rogaine Extra Strength. Propecia stops the damage to the hair so that it can begin the long process of healing and Minoxidil directly stimulates the hair to grow. Either are better than nothing, but for best results, use both."

   Inhouse Pharmacy (UK)