Medication for hair loss - does it work, even a little bit?

[Kalypso]

I've got quite noticeable hair loss (the thinning kind, as opposed to patchy hair loss). It started about 8 years ago.

I'm awaiting the results of a recent blood test. I had one several years ago and it showed my iron levels were low, so I took iron tablets for a few months. However, my hair did not improve. I think it's probably a hormonal or genetic thing.

I'm now getting quite down about it, so presuming my blood test is normal, I am going to ask if there's anything the doctor can prescribe to help the hair grow back.

Even a slight improvement would make a difference. Has anyone any experience of this?

No experience, but apparently Minoxidil works. Long list of possible side effects, though. :( Speak to your GP.

Hi I'm on viviscal for about 6weeks now so il let you know in a few months tis very expensive and iv thought about gettin the treatment for a few years now but have been either pg or bf so couldn't but now I'm neither and just happened to find it on half price special offer one day in a chemists I never even usually go to so bit the bullet and bought the full 6months course... It's supposed to slow down/stop the excessive hair loss for the first two months then strength what you have already then promote new growth... We'll see... It was a big investment for me cause money is tight so I really really hope it was worth it! anyone who's had any luck id love to hear bout it too :) best of luck op hope you can get some help from g.p cause I know how depressing it is

Thanks both. Minoxidil looks like the one most likely to work (thanks for the link), but the possible side effects look pretty horrible! So I'll probably not try that, unless it gets worse.

Secretwishes - could you let me know how Viviscal goes? I'm curious as to whether it helps with new hair growth, thus making the thinness less noticeable, as opposed to just making existing hair grow more quickly. Thanks!