Johnson & Johnson (JNJ), Merck & Co., Inc. (MRK), GlaxoSmithKline plc (ADR) (GSK) – Hold On to Your Hair: Three Leading Treatments for Male Pattern Baldness

The most common side effects of Avodart include impotence and lowered libido. A more serious adverse effect can be a higher likelihood of prostate cancer.

On the way?
Of course, there are other products that are used as hair loss treatments — some effective and some not so much. Better yet, more could be on the way.

Researchers at the University of Pennsylvania discovered a link between a protein called prostaglandin D synthase, or PGD2, and baldness. The team of scientists developed a PGD2-inhibiting pill and hope to also create a cream version. Clinical trials could begin within the next couple of years.

Then there’s bimatoprost from Allergan, Inc. (NYSE:AGN). Allergan, Inc. (NYSE:AGN) first developed and marketed the drug to help individuals grow eyelashes. In May, the company announced disappointing phase 2 results for bimatoprost as a treatment for baldness. However, Allergan, Inc. (NYSE:AGN) plans to move ahead with testing using a much stronger formulation.

While the odds are stacked against men with respect to baldness for now, current treatments can help. Future treatments could help even more. In the meantime, just keep holding on.

Even those who aren’t concerned about male pattern baldness could be tempted to pull out their hair after seeing their tax bills. Tax increases that took effect at the beginning of 2013 affected nearly every American taxpayer. But with the right planning, you can take steps to take control of your taxes and potentially even lower your tax bill.

The article Hold On to Your Hair: 3 Leading Treatments for Male Pattern Baldness originally appeared on Fool.com and is written by Keith Speights.

Fool contributor Keith Speights has no position in any stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool recommends Johnson & Johnson. The Motley Fool owns shares of Johnson & Johnson.

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