Hair Loss Medications and Supplements: A Comprehensive Guide

Female Hair Loss

Hair loss can be a distressing and deeply personal concern, especially for women. While some hair shedding is normal, noticeable thinning or bald patches may signal an underlying issue. At Complete Healthcare in Richland, WA, we offer personalized care to uncover the root causes of hair loss and provide effective, science-based treatments. This guide explores the most commonly used medications, supplements, and therapies that can help restore healthy hair growth—whether the cause is hormonal, nutritional, or inflammatory.

Understanding Female Hair Loss

Women may experience hair loss for many reasons, including:

• Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)

• Iron deficiency

• Thyroid disorders

• Perimenopause or menopause

• Stress or illness

• Genetics (female pattern hair loss)

Identifying the underlying cause is critical to developing an effective treatment plan. At Complete Healthcare, we offer diagnostic evaluations that may include hormone testing, iron panels, and thyroid screening.

Medications for Hair Loss

Spironolactone

Spironolactone is an anti-androgen medication often prescribed to women with PCOS or other forms of hormonal imbalance. It works by blocking the effects of androgens (male hormones) on hair follicles, reducing further hair loss and, in some cases, promoting regrowth.

• Best for: Hormonal hair loss (especially with symptoms like acne or hirsutism)

• How it works: Blocks DHT at the receptor level

• What to expect: Results in 3–6 months

• Important notes: Requires regular lab monitoring; not safe in pregnancy

Finasteride (Propecia)

Though more commonly used in men, finasteride is sometimes prescribed off-label for postmenopausal women experiencing androgenic alopecia. It reduces the production of dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a hormone that contributes to follicle shrinkage and thinning hair.

• Best for: Female pattern hair loss, especially in postmenopausal women

• How it works: Inhibits 5-alpha reductase to reduce DHT levels

• What to expect: Results may take 6–12 months

• Caution: Teratogenic—not safe during pregnancy

Topical and Injectable Treatments

Minoxidil (Rogaine)

Minoxidil is FDA-approved for female hair loss and remains the most widely used topical treatment. Available over the counter, it increases blood flow to the scalp and stimulates follicles to enter the growth phase.

• Best for: Female pattern hair loss

• How it works: Promotes follicle enlargement and prolongs growth cycle

• What to expect: Visible improvement in 4–6 months

• Available forms: Foam or liquid (2% or 5%)

Plated (Exosome-Rich Topical Therapy)

Plated is a next-generation topical solution derived from platelet exosome technology, used in dermatology and regenerative medicine. It contains cell-signaling molecules that promote hair follicle activity and reduce scalp inflammation.

• Best for: Women with early thinning or hair shedding

• How it works: Signals growth and repair at the cellular level

• Benefits: Non-invasive, with minimal side effects

Key Supplements and Nutrients

Iron

Iron deficiency is a common yet often overlooked cause of hair shedding in women, especially those with heavy periods or underlying anemia. Ferritin (the stored form of iron) plays a vital role in hair follicle function.

• Recommendation: Ferritin should be >40–50 ng/mL for optimal hair support

• Supplementation: Should be guided by lab results to avoid toxicity

Biotin

Biotin, a B vitamin, supports keratin production, though its benefit in hair loss is most pronounced when a deficiency exists.

• Caution: High-dose biotin can interfere with lab tests (e.g., thyroid and troponin levels)

Vitamin D

Low vitamin D levels have been associated with increased hair shedding and autoimmune-related hair loss such as alopecia areata.

• Optimal level: 40–60 ng/mL

• Supplementation: Often needed in women with limited sun exposure

Zinc

Zinc supports scalp health and has anti-inflammatory properties. Deficiency may contribute to telogen effluvium or chronic scalp inflammation.

Hormonal and Medical Evaluation

A thorough medical evaluation is essential because female hair loss is often multifactorial.

At Complete Healthcare, we investigate all potential causes, including:

• Hormonal imbalances (PCOS, estrogen/testosterone shifts)

• Thyroid dysfunction

• Autoimmune conditions

• Postpartum changes

Comprehensive Treatment Planning at Complete Healthcare

At Complete Healthcare, we believe in a holistic approach to hair loss. Treatment may include:

• Prescription medications like spironolactone or finasteride

• Topical therapies including minoxidil or Plated

• Lab-guided supplementation for iron, vitamin D, and more

• Scalp health optimization through lifestyle and stress reduction

Each treatment plan is tailored by Dr. Richard Lorenzo, D.O. and Kortney Jones, ARNP, who work closely with patients to identify causes and select appropriate therapies.

When to Seek Help

If you notice:

• A widening part

• Excessive hair in your brush or shower

• Bald patches

• Shedding that lasts longer than 3 months

We encourage you to schedule a consultation. Early intervention can prevent further loss and offer the best chance for regrowth.

Don't wait to address hair loss—schedule your appointment with our team today.

Located in Richland, WA, we proudly serve patients across the Tri-Cities. 509-392-6700

Complete Healthcare -

Richard Lorenzo, D.O.

Kortney Jones ARNP

509-392-6700

Kortney Jones, ARNP

Kortney Jones is board-certified by the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners. She provides OB/GYN services, including birth control, pregnancy and prenatal care, and infertility, as well as gynecological services, such as women’s health and wellness, abnormal uterine bleeding, weight loss, pellet hormone therapy, and menopause.