How does nizoral work?

[newby1234]

I'm new to this but I thought that dht production happened inside our bodies therefore the best way to stop or reduce it is by using propecia? How does a shampoo that claims to block dht work if it's only external?

[Blake Bloxham]

Newby,

 

Ketoconazole (the active ingredient in Nizoral) is first, and foremost, an anti-fungal agent. In this regard, it may have some hair loss impact by reducing scalp inflammation and, therefore, increasing the flow of blood and nutrients to the scalp (though this is my personal opinion).

 

However, a 1996 study comparing ketoconazole to minoxidil (the active ingredient in Rogaine) helped demonstrate that the anti-fungal also possesses some anti-androgen (hormone) properties. Because of this, it's believed that ketoconazole may have some "anti-DHT" capabilities and can therefore help combat hair loss on the hormonal front as well.

 

Utilizing ketoconazole on the scalp versus a systemic ingestion (oral administration) allows the drug to absorb and work at the site of administration (the scalp). This means that, much like using topical minoxidil, you won't see a system wide blockage of DHT, but you can see some action at the scalp itself.

 

However, keep in mind that, at this point in time, minoxidil (Rogaine) and finasteride (Propecia) are the only two drugs fully approved for treating genetic hair loss, and I highly recommend adding these components to your Nizoral regimen (if you aren't already).

 

Good luck!

[NEWHAIRPLEASE]

Good explanation of the benefits of nizoral.

[geoffrecession]

Thank you for your in-depth explanations Future_HT_Doc. You have a lot of knowledge and passion. Know that it is much appreciated by all of us;)

Edited December 29, 2011 by geoffrecession

[MrJobi]

Very good explanation

 

It's certainly not a wonder drug but for someone who want to "do everything" to hault hair loss it certainly cannot hurt

[newby1234]

In the UK its marketed as anti dandruff shampoo.

How often would it be suggested to use for hair loss per week?

[TakingThePlunge]

newby,

 

It's also marketed as an anti-dandruff shampoo here in the US. I personally use the the 1% formula twice weekly. It also comes in a 2% solution but here in the US it is only available by prescription and is also significantly more expensive.

[newby1234]

2% shampoo ordered. ?8 for a bottle off eBay