Finasteride reviews, side effects and effectiveness
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[addtoany]Finasteride (also known as Propecia and Proscar) is a prescription tablet (oral) medication that is taken by males only for male pattern hair loss or baldness. The medication itself is also used to treat an enlarged prostate.
As finasteride or Propecia is a prescription only medicine, it is vital to see your doctor to discuss whether it is appropriate for you. The information listed is only intended as the basics to aid in discussion with your doctor. Before starting any hair loss treatment, you should also read the manufacturer instructions and listed side effects.
Mechanism of Action
The way finasteride works is by inhibiting an enzyme (5 alpha reductase) that converts testosterone to DHT. As we saw in the main hair loss post, it is the DHT that is responsible for hair thinning by acting on the hair follicles. Therefore, by blocking the production of DHT, finasteride’s action helps prevent or slow hair loss as well as possibly leading to some regrowth.
How to take
Finasteride tablets are taken once daily.
It needs to be taken for at least twelve months to know whether it is proving to be effective.
Effectiveness of finasteride
Does Propecia work? Studies suggest that after six months, treatment leads to about a 30 per cent improvement in hair loss. The improvement has been cited to occur in the majority of men using the medication. If taken in the earlier stages, it has been suggested it could lead to some regrowth as well.
Like minoxidil, Propecia results only persists as long as the drug is taken as the medication does not affect cure or affect the underlying process.
Finasteride side effects
Studies concerning finasteride side effects and risks are ongoing. The individual risks of each potential should be taken on board when deciding on whether to go ahead. Discuss these with your doctor.
Generally speaking, side effects are very uncommon. They may include sexual dysfunction (eg erectile dysfunction, reduced libido), a possible slight increased risk of prostate cancer (more recent studies suggest no link – discuss this with your doctor) and breast conditions, amongst others.
As far as we are aware at the time of writing, no adverse effects on pregnancy (for example, premature termination, defects or premature birth) have been reported when the father is taking finasteride.
It is not recommended for women due to safety risks.
Finasteride Alternatives
Alternatives include dutasteride, minoxidil, herbal and vitamin supplements, laser therapy and surgical transplantation as well as combinations of the above.
Reviews
What was your experience with finasteride? Did you experience any side effects? Did you have success with slowing down the hair loss process or even experience any hair regrowth? Which brand did you use (e.g. Propecia)? Did you combine it with anything else?