Hi Dave, welcome to the forum. The only proved FDA approved hair loss treatments available at the moment are Propecia(finasteride) and Rogaine (Regaine/minoxidil).
The first one Propecia comes in 1mg form which is the daily recommended dose.....but can be bought much cheaper here in the UK in 5mg form called Finasteride (they are the same active ingredients), but you will need to split the tablets up with a sharp knife or pill cutter.
The above does have side effects in some individuals so i would suggest consulting your GP about this first. It is however the best weapon in the fight against hair loss in most peoples eyes, as it helps you keep what you have or slow your loss right down, and in some it even regrows hair.
The second thing is the Rogaine/Regaine/Minoxidil.....They are all the same but you can purchase it in liquid form which imo tends to be messy, or foam form which is similar to styling mouse and very easy to apply. This needs to be applied daily and has been proved to slow loss and even regrow hair in some people.
The main drawback to these treatments is they both are ongoing treatments and any gains noticed will stop if you stop the taking them.
I noticed you said you had receding at the sides, i pressume you mean a receeding hairline..... Both Rogaine and Propecia have been said to be less effective in these areas so that's worth considering also, but they will definitely help your ongoing hair loss situation.
Regards Bullit