Can cortisone shots be used to treat non-areata sufferers?

[elguapo]

From what I have read about cortisone shots so far in treating sufferes of alopecia areata, it sounds like it simple gives hairs the signal to jump-start their growth. So instead of, say, waiting for propecia or minoxidil to kick in, why can't we simply get a cortisone shot and see if that works?

I am nearing the 6-mo propecia mark, and the 3-mo rogaine mark. I just KNOW that those little hairs under my scalp want to grow again, but they just need that extra juice for encouragement! :lol:

 

[Hairless Potter]

I doubt if steroid injections will work for male pattern baldness. The reason it can be effective in alopecia areata is based on etiology. Areata is an autoimmune condition. Steroids act to suppress this autoimmune response. Unlike male pattern baldness which seems to result from DHT, genetics, and scalp irritation among other things. Also, when my dad was my age 30ish, he started balding. His Doctor tried cortisone injections on him for his male pattern baldness. He told me it hurt like hell, gave him a terrible headache, and did nothing for his hairloss.

 

[elguapo]

Okay, that makes sense. Thanks for the explanation.

I guess I just feel like i lost SOOOO much hair in such a short period of time. I have pictures of me in March 2003 where my hair is as thick as it's always been. Then I studied abroad, drank like a fish, then lost 25 lbs in 2 months, and came home, and I noticed up to 25 hairs on my pillow every morning for a good 4 months after I got back to the States.

My dad had male pattern baldness, at a NW4-5 at age 52, so I think I do, too. But it all went so fast, and I'm thinking that IF it is/was Telogen Effluvium, then that little shot might help me.

But I guess since I don't want an assload of pain and a day-long headache, I will just tell myself to continue to be patient, and let things happen on their own.

Thanks.