@Hisbeloved - did the Doctor indicate if there was any noticeable improvement? You are right to think long and seriously before using Rogaine/Minoxidil. Doctors recommend it but it is also known that you will lose the regrown hair, if you discontinue use. It is a lifetime commitment (if you want to retain the hair) and it does have side affects. Rogaine/Minoxidil reminds me of the commercials on medications, where a long list of side affects, worse than the originally ailment being treated.
I know two ladies, who suffer from Lupus. Both are taking oral steroids (to treat the Lupus) and their hair is growing like Rapunzel. The hair growth rate is unbelievable, unfortantely they are both experiencing a tremendous amount of weight gain. A derm prescribed a topical steroid (
fluocinonide) for me a few years back. I'm not sure if the effects would be the same - oral vs. topical - I think not.
I hope you start to see improvement with the treatment regimen the doctor has prescribed for you.Please keep me updated on your progress.