What If I Try Rogaine and Propecia, Then Phase Out Rogaine Gradually?

Dear Doctor Rassman:

I’m 28 and have noticed a rather rapid hair loss on top, behind the hairline. I’m scheduled for a miniaturization study next week. I’m afraid of the 6 month gamble on Propecia only–the one you recommend, particularly because hair loss seems so sudden and fast. What if I use Rogaine and Propecia simultaneously and if and when hair loss is reversed–say a year from now–gradually phase out Rogaine? Would my body be able to tell which hairs owe their existence specifically to Monoxidil and I lose the benefit I gained from it and keep only the hair supported by Propecia? Thanks.

The mechanism of action is different for finasteride and minoxidil. If you use both and receive benefits, then stop using Rogaine, you will lose any benefits from the Rogaine. It isn’t possible to tell which drug gave which benefits, which is why I recommend starting with one and then adding the other if necessary. Propecia does not keep hair grown by minoxidil and vice versa.

In other words, what you’re suggesting is not a good idea.