Dr Rassman,

Thank you for the blog its very informative.

I was taking proscar (Finastride) and applying minoxidil for approx 6-8 months to good effect, noticing not only reduction of hair loss but good regrowth. However i was experiencing heart palpitations. I am in my mid 30s and do not have any history of any heart problems. Infact when i was experiencing the palpitations i had a thorough heart check up and was given a clean bill of health. I subsequently stopped both treatments and the palpitation went away. I have started taking Finastride in the last 3 months and do not notice any side effects however i notice no positive effect in either growth or the reduction of hear loss.

My questions are, how long does it take for Finastride to take effect if it is going to work since restarting it? Can i restart the minoxidil even with its side effect and would the side effect diminish over time?

Thank you for you assistance.

Minoxidil may cause a drop in your blood pressure even when it is applied topically, and this may precipitate heart palpitations. I would have recommended that you see a physician for this problem, but it seem you have already. I couldn’t tell you if the heart issues will cease with continued minoxidil use, but it isn’t likely as far as I am aware. I would discuss this further with your physician.

Propecia (finasteride 1mg) acts fairly fast once it is started, as we have seen a reduction in the hair that falls out within the first two months, but to see any possible regrowth of your hair will take a full year.

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