Hi,
I had a similar response ( if not better ) to meds some 10 years back. I was extremly happy with the results unfortunately the sides meant I had to stop.
I can only go by my own epereiences but I say they work, but you must be patient, sheds do occue but just stick in there and if you do not suffer from the sides, you will see a positive outcome.
I was on Fin then switched to Dut to try and avoid the sides, both worked wonders, but the side remained.