Topical & Drugs: Costs
Topical & drug treatments are generally the least expensive way to go, as they can cost as little as $20 per month. On the other hand, they can also cost up to $500 monthly depending on daily dose, amount purchased, and potency of the product. These drugs are the kind you need to take for a very long period of time, so the price will begin to add up, but if the end results are positive you will have re-grown your own hair, (for a fraction of the costs of transplants) and that would be a very rewarding factor.
Costs of Rogaine
On the Rogaine Ordering Site you can order a 1 month supply for $24.95 or a 4 month supply for $53.95. Although that price is for the lower dosages (higher doses can only be received with a prescription), it is still relatively inexpensive. A one-year supply of Rogaine will run you under $220, not including shipping. With this type of treatment it is recommended that you go at least a year before judging final results.
Costs of Propecia
Propecia can currently only be obtained in the US with a prescription from your doctor. It can be ordered online from foreign countries, but you will have to pay higher prices, more shipping, etc. Doctors can prescribe Propecia at many different dosage levels. The lower dosage levels will cost between $70 and $100, and higher dosages can be as much as $300 or more. If you are currently using Propecia and have more information about pricing please feel free to contact us about it.
Insurance pays
Your insurance company may be able to pay for some or all of the costs of Propecia and Rogaine, but this varies greatly with respect to carriers, price, dosages, and other factors. Contact your insurer to find out all the possibilities within your policy; you may find that you can try Rogaine or Propecia at a discounted rate or free. When your insurer pays, it also takes some (or all) of the financial risk of off you -- if it doesnt work, no loss.
Propecia's 12-Month Promise
On the official Propecia website they have a guarantee where if you sign up on their website, go through your doctor, and see no results, they will completely reimburse you. Following their rules and guidelines, it seems that this deal eliminates the risk of trying Propecia. After 12 months you and your doctor will assess your hair growth or if you've maintained the hair you had and if you have not, and hair loss is continued you will be completely refunded for 12 months of treatment. If I were looking into this option, this would definitely be my first choice, mostly due to the money-back gaurantee.