Search
Close this search box.

Finasteride for Hair Loss

Among various hair loss treatments, Finasteride for hair loss stands out as one of the most effective options. Originally developed to treat benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) under the brand name Proscar, Finasteride’s hair growth-promoting effects led to its approval for male pattern hair loss under the brand name Propecia

Extensive clinical trials have validated the efficacy and safety of Finasteride for hair loss.

We will compare Finasteride for hair loss with other treatments like Minoxidil and Dutasteride and examine emerging research on topical Finasteride formulations. 

In the course of your reading, hair loss patients who can use Finasteride for their treatments will be discussed. Also, more attention about the impacts of close monitoring and proper follow up as well as the implications of a discontinued treatment will be unraveled. 

It is the main objective of this article to improve the knowledge of readers about the intricacies of using Finasteride for hair loss treatment. Ultimately using the information given here to make informed decisions as it concerns treating adrogenetic alopecia.

finasteride for hair loss
Science Score
37%
Top Benefits
Estimated price
Finasteride
Download Our Finasteride for Hair Loss: Effective Hair Regrowth Guide

Save our detailed guide on Finasteride for Hair Loss: Effective Hair Regrowth and read it anytime you want. Click below to download your PDF now!

Table of Contents

What is Finasteride?

finasteride timeline

Finasteride is a synthetic 4-azasteroid compound that functions as a specific inhibitor of the enzyme type II 5α-reductase. This enzyme plays a crucial role in the metabolic conversion of testosterone to dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a potent androgen that contributes significantly to hair follicle miniaturization in androgenetic alopecia. 

Also, Finasteride is known as a synthetic drug that belongs to a class of medications known as 5-alpha reductase inhibitors. It is specifically designed to treat conditions related to the hormone dihydrotestosterone (DHT), which plays a significant role in the development of certain types of hair loss and prostate enlargement.

By inhibiting this enzyme, Finasteride effectively reduces the levels of DHT in the scalp, thereby slowing down hair loss and, in many cases, promoting hair regrowth.

Finasteride is marketed under various brand names, including Proscar and Propecia. Proscar, which contains 5 mg of Finasteride, is primarily used to treat benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), while Propecia, containing 1 mg of Finasteride, is specifically indicated for the treatment of male pattern hair loss.

hair loss pills finasteride

Chemical Composition and Structure

Finasteride is a synthetic 4-azasteroid compound, structurally related to the natural steroid hormones. Its chemical structure enables it to specifically target and inhibit the enzyme 5-alpha reductase. 

This enzyme exists in two isoforms: type I and type II, with Finasteride primarily inhibiting type II. By doing so, it effectively reduces the conversion of testosterone to DHT, a potent androgen involved in the pathogenesis of androgenetic alopecia and benign prostatic hyperplasia.

Development and Approval of Finasteride

Finasteride was developed in the late 1980s by Merck & Co. as a treatment for benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), a condition characterized by an enlarged prostate that can cause urinary symptoms in men. 

It was first approved by the FDA in 1992 under the brand name Proscar, which contains 5 mg of Finasteride. During clinical trials for BPH, researchers noticed that patients taking Finasteride also experienced hair regrowth, leading to further studies on its efficacy for treating male pattern baldness.

In 1997, the FDA approved a lower dose of Finasteride (1 mg) for the treatment of male pattern hair loss, marketed under the brand name Propecia. This approval was based on extensive clinical trials demonstrating its effectiveness in reducing hair loss and promoting hair regrowth in men with androgenetic alopecia.

Mechanism of Action

Finasteride exerts its therapeutic effects by specifically inhibiting the enzyme 5-alpha reductase type II. This enzyme is responsible for converting testosterone, a principal male hormone, into dihydrotestosterone (DHT). 

DHT is a more potent androgen that binds to androgen receptors in hair follicles and the prostate gland, promoting hair follicle miniaturization in androgenetic alopecia and prostate growth in benign prostatic hyperplasia.

By inhibiting 5-alpha reductase type II, Finasteride significantly reduces the levels of DHT in the scalp and bloodstream. This reduction in DHT levels helps to:

  1. Inhibit Hair Follicle Miniaturization: In androgenetic alopecia, high levels of DHT cause hair follicles to shrink, leading to thinner and shorter hair. By lowering DHT levels, Finasteride helps to prevent this miniaturization, allowing hair follicles to maintain or return to a healthier state.
  2. Promote Hair Regrowth: Reduced DHT levels can also stimulate the regrowth of hair in follicles that have not yet been completely miniaturized. This is particularly effective in the early stages of hair loss.
  3. Reduce Prostate Size: In benign prostatic hyperplasia, elevated DHT levels contribute to prostate growth. By lowering DHT, Finasteride helps to shrink the prostate, alleviating symptoms such as difficulty urinating and increased urinary frequency.
Find the Right Hair Loss Treatment for You

Download the Hair Back App and discover a variety of hair loss solutions tailored to your needs.

Clinical Efficacy of Finasteride

Short-term Studies

Several clinical trials have demonstrated the efficacy of Finasteride in treating androgenetic alopecia. In a pivotal study published by Kaufman et al, 1,553 men aged 18 to 41 years with mild to moderate AGA were randomized to receive either 1 mg of Finasteride or a placebo daily for two years7

The results showed that Finasteride significantly increased hair count and improved hair appearance compared to the placebo group. The treatment group also reported higher satisfaction with their hair growth.

Long-term Studies

Long-term studies further support the efficacy of Finasteride. A research was conducted by Yangisawa and other researchers, a 10-year study involving 523 Japanese men with AGA8. The study found that continuous treatment with Finasteride maintained or increased hair density in most participants, with a low incidence of adverse effects. 

This long-term efficacy is crucial for patients considering Finasteride as a long-term treatment option for hair loss.

Uses of Finasteride

Finasteride is primarily utilized in medical practice for two main conditions: androgenetic alopecia (male pattern hair loss) and benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH).

Here is an in-depth look at each of these uses:

1. Androgenetic Alopecia (Male Pattern Hair Loss)

  • Mechanism: Finasteride inhibits the enzyme type II 5α-reductase, which is responsible for converting testosterone to dihydrotestosterone (DHT). High levels of DHT in the scalp contribute to the miniaturization of hair follicles, leading to hair thinning and loss. By reducing DHT levels, Finasteride helps to slow hair loss and, in many cases, promote new hair growth.
  • Indication: Finasteride is indicated for the treatment of male pattern hair loss, also known as androgenetic alopecia, in men. It is most effective in the early stages of hair loss.
  • Dosage: The typical dosage for treating male pattern hair loss is 1 mg taken orally once a day. It is marketed under the brand name Propecia for this indication.
  • Effectiveness: Clinical studies have shown that Finasteride can increase hair count and improve hair appearance in men with androgenetic alopecia. The benefits are usually observed after three to six months of consistent use, with maximum results typically seen after one to two years of continuous treatment. If the treatment is discontinued, hair loss usually resumes within 12 months.

2. Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH)

  • Mechanism: Similar to its role in treating hair loss, Finasteride’s inhibition of the 5α-reductase enzyme reduces DHT levels, which in turn helps to shrink the enlarged prostate and alleviate urinary symptoms associated with BPH.
  • Indication: Finasteride is used to treat symptomatic benign prostatic hyperplasia in men with an enlarged prostate. It can help to reduce the risk of urinary retention and the need for surgery related to BPH.
  • Dosage: For the treatment of BPH, the typical dosage is 5 mg taken orally once a day. It is marketed under the brand name Proscar for this purpose.
  • Effectiveness: Finasteride can reduce the size of the prostate and improve symptoms such as difficulty in urinating, frequent urination, and decreased urinary flow. Improvement in symptoms is generally observed within six months of starting treatment.

3. Female Pattern Hair Loss

  • Use in Women: Although Finasteride is not approved for use in women, especially those of childbearing age due to potential teratogenic effects, some studies and clinical practices have explored its use in treating female pattern hair loss in postmenopausal women. The efficacy and safety in this group require further research and careful medical supervision.

4. Hirsutism in Women

  • Mechanism: By reducing androgen levels, Finasteride may help to reduce excessive hair growth in women with hirsutism, a condition characterized by unwanted, male-pattern hair growth.

5. Prostate Cancer Prevention

  • Research: Finasteride has been investigated for its potential role in reducing the risk of prostate cancer. Some studies suggest it may lower the overall risk, but there is a concern about an increased incidence of high-grade prostate cancer. Therefore, its use for this purpose is controversial and not widely adopted.

How Finasteride Works

Finasteride’s effectiveness in treating both androgenetic alopecia and benign prostatic hyperplasia is rooted in its ability to inhibit the enzyme 5α-reductase. Here is a detailed explanation of its mechanism of action:

Enzyme Inhibition

Finasteride is a selective inhibitor of the enzyme 5α-reductase. This enzyme exists in two isoforms, type I and type II, with Finasteride primarily targeting the type II isoform. The 5α-reductase enzyme is responsible for the conversion of testosterone, a principal male hormone, into dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a more potent androgen5.

Dihydrotestosterone (DHT)

DHT plays a significant role in the development and progression of androgenetic alopecia and benign prostatic hyperplasia:

  • Androgenetic Alopecia: High levels of DHT in the scalp bind to androgen receptors in hair follicles. This binding leads to a process called follicular miniaturization, where hair follicles shrink, produce thinner and shorter hair strands, and eventually cease to produce hair. By lowering DHT levels, Finasteride helps prevent or reverse this miniaturization, promoting hair regrowth and reducing hair loss.
  • Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH): In the prostate gland, DHT is a key driver of cellular proliferation, leading to prostate enlargement. This enlargement can cause urinary symptoms such as difficulty in urination, increased frequency, and weak urinary stream. By reducing DHT levels, Finasteride helps shrink the prostate, alleviating these symptoms.

Molecular Action

When Finasteride is administered, it acts by binding to the 5α-reductase enzyme, specifically inhibiting its activity. This inhibition prevents the conversion of testosterone to DHT, resulting in a significant reduction in DHT levels in both the bloodstream and target tissues such as the scalp and prostate gland.

Effects on Hair Follicles

  • Reduction in DHT Levels: By inhibiting 5α-reductase, Finasteride reduces DHT levels in the scalp, leading to decreased binding of DHT to androgen receptors in hair follicles.
  • Prevention of Follicular Miniaturization: With lower DHT levels, the process of follicular miniaturization is slowed or halted, allowing hair follicles to maintain their size and function.
  • Stimulation of Hair Growth: Some hair follicles that have been miniaturized but are still viable may respond to the reduction in DHT by producing thicker and longer hair strands, leading to visible hair regrowth.

Effects on the Prostate

  • Shrinkage of Enlarged Prostate: In men with BPH, the reduction in DHT levels leads to a decrease in prostate size, which helps relieve urinary symptoms associated with prostate enlargement1.
  • Improvement in Urinary Symptoms: By shrinking the prostate, Finasteride alleviates symptoms such as difficulty in urination, increased urinary frequency, and weak urine flow, improving overall urinary function.

Pharmacokinetics

  • Absorption: Finasteride is well-absorbed when taken orally, with peak plasma concentrations reached within 1 to 2 hours.
  • Metabolism: It is extensively metabolized in the liver, primarily by the enzyme cytochrome P450 3A4 (CYP3A4).
  • Excretion: The metabolites of Finasteride are excreted through urine and feces.
finasteride treament

Safety and Side Effects of Finasteride

Common Side Effects

While Finasteride is generally well-tolerated, some patients may experience side effects. The most commonly reported side effects include sexual dysfunction,such as decreased libido, erectile dysfunction, and ejaculation disorders. These side effects are typically mild and often resolve with continued treatment or after discontinuation of the medication.

Serious Adverse Effects

There have been reports of more serious adverse effects, including breast tenderness and enlargement, depression, and high-grade prostate cancer. The FDA has issued a warning regarding the potential risk of developing high-grade prostate cancer with the use of 5-alpha reductase inhibitors like Finasteride. However, the overall incidence of these serious side effects is low.

Does Finasteride Work?

Yes, Finasteride is effective in treating androgenetic alopecia (male pattern hair loss) and benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). It works by inhibiting the enzyme 5α-reductase, which reduces the conversion of testosterone to dihydrotestosterone (DHT). Elevated DHT levels are implicated in both hair loss and prostate enlargement18

By reducing DHT, Finasteride helps to slow or stop hair loss and stimulate hair regrowth in men, as well as reduce prostate size and alleviate symptoms of BPH.

How Long Does It Take Finasteride to Work?

For Hair Loss

  • Initial Effects: Some men may notice a reduction in hair loss as early as three months after starting treatment.
  • Visible Results: Significant improvements, such as increased hair count and density, are typically observed after six months to one year of consistent use.
  • Maximum Benefits: The full benefits of Finasteride are usually seen after one to two years of continuous use.

For Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH)

  • Symptom Relief: Some men may experience relief from urinary symptoms related to BPH within a few weeks.
  • Prostate Size Reduction: Significant reduction in prostate size and maximum symptom relief usually occur within six months of consistent use.

How Effective Is Finasteride?

For Hair Loss

  • Clinical Studies: Clinical trials have shown that Finasteride can increase hair count by up to 10-20% in men with androgenetic alopecia. It is most effective in men with mild to moderate hair loss.
  • Long-Term Efficacy: Long-term studies indicate that continuous use of Finasteride maintains hair count and improves hair density over several years13.

For Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH)

  • Symptom Improvement: Clinical studies have demonstrated that Finasteride significantly improves urinary symptoms, reduces prostate volume by approximately 20-30%, and decreases the risk of acute urinary retention and the need for surgical intervention.

Can You Stop Taking Finasteride?

You may find it difficult stopping Finasteride as a treatment for your hair loss. If you stop, here are some side effects you may encounter along the way. The side effects may be any or all of symptoms mentioned below:

Hair Loss

  • Discontinuation Effects: If Finasteride is discontinued, any hair regrowth or prevention of further hair loss achieved during treatment will typically be lost within 12 months. Hair loss will likely resume to the levels seen before starting the medication.

Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH)

  • Discontinuation Effects: Stopping Finasteride may result in a return of BPH symptoms, and the prostate may gradually increase in size again.

Is Finasteride for Beards Effective?

  • Limited Evidence: There is limited scientific evidence to support the use of Finasteride for enhancing beard growth. Finasteride primarily targets DHT in the scalp and prostate, and its effects on facial hair growth have not been well-studied.
  • DHT and Facial Hair: DHT is actually a key hormone for facial hair growth. Reducing DHT levels with Finasteride could theoretically have a negative effect on beard growth, though individual responses may vary.
Find the Right Hair Loss Treatment for You

Download the Hair Back App and discover a variety of hair loss solutions tailored to your needs.

Comparative Studies of Finasteride with Other Treatments

Here’s a comprehensive comparison table comparing Finasteride with other common hair loss treatments:

AspectFinasterideMinoxidilPRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma)
MechanismInhibits DHT levelsIncreases blood flow to hair folliclesUtilizes patient’s blood platelets to stimulate hair follicles
Application MethodOral medication (pill)Topical application (liquid/foam)Injections into the scalp
Treatment FrequencyDaily intakeTwice daily applicationEvery 3-6 months
EffectivenessEffective in many men, less in womenEffective for early-stage hair lossGood for early to moderate hair loss
Side EffectsSexual dysfunction, decreased libido, breast tendernessScalp irritation, dryness, sheddingMild pain at injection site
CostModerate ($20-$80 per month)Low to moderate ($30-$60 per month)Moderate to high ($500-$2000 per session)
Regrowth Onset3-6 months3-6 monthsSeveral months
Longevity of ResultsLong-term with continuous useRequires continuous useLong-term with maintenance
FDA ApprovalFDA-approvedFDA-approvedNot specifically FDA-approved for hair loss

How to Apply Finasteride

Topical Finasteride

  • Formulation: Topical Finasteride is available in the form of sprays, foams, or solutions.

Application Process

  • Preparation: Ensure your scalp is clean and dry before application. If you have recently washed your hair, dry it thoroughly.
  • Application: Using the applicator provided, apply the prescribed amount of topical Finasteride directly to the affected areas of the scalp.
  • Even Distribution: Gently spread the solution over the area using your fingers. Avoid washing the treated area for at least four hours after application.
  • Frequency: Follow the prescribed frequency, usually once daily, as directed by your healthcare provider.

Considerations

  • Consistency: Use the topical solution consistently for optimal results.
  • Side Effects: Be aware of potential side effects, such as scalp irritation, and report any adverse reactions to your healthcare provider.

How to Take Finasteride Orally

Oral Finasteride

  • Formulation: Oral Finasteride is typically available in tablet form, in doses of 1 mg (for hair loss) and 5 mg (for BPH).

Dosage

  • For androgenetic alopecia: The recommended dose is 1 mg taken once daily.
  • For benign prostatic hyperplasia: The recommended dose is 5 mg taken once daily.

Administration

  • Timing: Take the tablet at the same time each day to maintain consistent levels of the medication in your body.
  • With or Without Food: Finasteride can be taken with or without food.
  • Swallowing: Swallow the tablet whole with a glass of water. Do not crush or chew the tablet.

Considerations

  • Missed Dose: If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it’s almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not double the dose.
  • Consistency: Take the medication consistently as prescribed to achieve and maintain results.
  • Side Effects: Be aware of potential side effects, such as decreased libido or erectile dysfunction, and report any adverse reactions to your healthcare provider.

Can Finasteride Be Combined with Other Hair Loss Treatments?

Yes, Finasteride can be combined with other hair loss treatments to enhance its effectiveness. Here are some common combinations:

1. Finasteride and Minoxidil

  • Mechanism:
    • Finasteride: Reduces DHT levels, preventing hair follicle miniaturization.
    • Minoxidil: Promotes hair growth by increasing blood flow to hair follicles and prolonging the anagen (growth) phase of the hair cycle.
  • Usage:
    • Finasteride is taken orally (1 mg daily).
    • Minoxidil is applied topically to the scalp twice daily (available in 2% and 5% formulations).
  • Efficacy: Studies suggest that the combination of Finasteride and Minoxidil is more effective than either treatment alone, providing better results in terms of hair count and hair density.

2. Finasteride and Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT)

  • Mechanism:
    • Finasteride: Reduces DHT levels.
    • LLLT: Uses red light to stimulate hair follicles and promote hair growth.
  • Usage: LLLT devices, such as laser combs or helmets, are used several times a week as directed.
  • Efficacy: Combining Finasteride with LLLT may enhance hair regrowth compared to using Finasteride alone.

3. Finasteride and Ketoconazole Shampoo

  • Mechanism:
    • Finasteride: Reduces DHT levels.
    • Ketoconazole: An antifungal agent that may reduce scalp inflammation and block DHT.
  • Usage: Ketoconazole shampoo is typically used 2-3 times a week in place of regular shampoo.
  • Efficacy: This combination can help reduce scalp inflammation and complement the DHT-reducing effects of Finasteride.

Considerations for Combination Therapy

  • Medical Supervision: Always consult with a healthcare provider before combining treatments to ensure they are appropriate for your specific condition and to avoid potential interactions.
  • Side Effects: Be aware of the potential side effects of each treatment and report any adverse reactions to your healthcare provider.
  • Consistency: Adhere to the prescribed regimen for each treatment to achieve the best results.

Can Women use Finasteride

Finasteride is generally not recommended for use in women, especially those who are pregnant or may become pregnant.

Here’s why:

Use in Women

  • Teratogenic Risk: Finasteride can cause abnormalities in male fetuses when taken during pregnancy. Pregnant women or women who may become pregnant should not handle crushed or broken Finasteride tablets due to the risk of absorption through the skin.
  • Lack of FDA Approval: Finasteride is not FDA-approved for use in women, primarily due to safety concerns related to potential fetal abnormalities.
  • Off-Label Use: In some cases, healthcare providers may consider off-label use of Finasteride for conditions like hirsutism (excessive hair growth) in women. However, this use requires careful consideration of the risks and benefits, as well as close monitoring for adverse effects.

Alternative Treatments for Women

For women experiencing hair loss or other conditions that may benefit from treatment similar to Finasteride’s mechanism of action, healthcare providers may recommend alternative options such as:

  • Minoxidil: A topical medication available over-the-counter that promotes hair growth.
  • Spironolactone: A medication that can block androgen receptors and reduce androgen production, often used off-label for conditions like hirsutism and female pattern hair loss.
  • Oral Contraceptives: Certain birth control pills with anti-androgenic properties may be prescribed to help manage conditions influenced by androgen levels.

How Much Does Finasteride Cost?

The cost of Finasteride can vary depending on several factors, including the brand, dosage, quantity, and location.

Here’s a general overview:

Brand vs. Generic

  • Brand Name (Propecia/Proscar): Brand name Finasteride, such as Propecia (for hair loss) and Proscar (for BPH), tend to be more expensive than their generic counterparts.
  • Generic: Generic Finasteride is typically more affordable and equally effective.

Pricing Overview (Approximate)

  • Generic Finasteride:
    • For hair loss (1 mg tablets): Approximately $10-$30 for a 30-day supply.
    • For BPH (5 mg tablets): Approximately $15-$40 for a 30-day supply.
  • Brand Name Finasteride:
    • Propecia (1 mg tablets): Approximately $70-$100 for a 30-day supply.
    • Proscar (5 mg tablets): Approximately $80-$120 for a 30-day supply.

Insurance and Discounts

    • Insurance Coverage: Some insurance plans may cover the cost of Finasteride, especially for BPH. Coverage for hair loss treatment may be less common.
    • Discount Programs and Coupons: Many pharmacies offer discount programs or coupons that can significantly reduce the cost of both generic and brand name Finasteride.

Finasteride Name Brands: Are They Better?

  1. Active Ingredient: Both brand name and generic Finasteride contain the same active ingredient (Finasteride) and are equally effective in treating hair loss and BPH.
  2. Manufacturing Standards: Generic medications are required by regulatory agencies, such as the FDA, to meet the same quality, safety, and efficacy standards as brand name medications.
  3. Differences: The primary differences between brand name and generic Finasteride are the price, and potentially the inactive ingredients (fillers, binders, etc.) used in the formulation.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Finasteride for hair loss is a medication widely recognized for its effectiveness in treating two distinct conditions: androgenetic alopecia (male pattern hair loss) and benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). 

By inhibiting the enzyme 5α-reductase, Finasteride reduces the conversion of testosterone to dihydrotestosterone (DHT), which plays a pivotal role in both hair follicle miniaturization and prostate enlargement.

For androgenetic alopecia, Finasteride has demonstrated significant clinical efficacy, with studies indicating increased hair count and improved hair density in men. The medication typically starts showing initial effects within a few months of consistent use, with maximum benefits becoming evident after one to two years.

Similarly, in the treatment of BPH, Finasteride effectively reduces prostate size, alleviates urinary symptoms, and decreases the risk of acute urinary retention and the need for surgical intervention. Symptom relief can be observed within six months of starting treatment.

Regarding administration, Finasteride is available in oral tablet form for both indications, with different dosages depending on the condition being treated. It can also be applied topically in some formulations for hair loss treatment, providing an alternative to oral administration.

Cost considerations vary between brand name (such as Propecia and Proscar) and generic versions of Finasteride, with generics typically being more cost-effective while offering the same therapeutic benefits. Despite these options, the choice between brand name and generic may depend on individual preferences, insurance coverage, and financial factors.

In summary, Finasteride remains a cornerstone treatment for androgenetic alopecia and BPH, offering significant benefits in terms of hair preservation and prostate health. Its efficacy, combined with reasonable cost options and different administration routes, provides patients with effective choices for managing these common conditions under medical supervision. 

Always consult with a healthcare provider to determine the most appropriate treatment approach tailored to individual needs and circumstances. 

PRP
Download Our Finasteride for Hair Loss: Effective Hair Regrowth Guide

Save our detailed guide on Finasteride for hair loss and read it anytime you want. Click below to download your PDF now!

FAQs

Men can take finasteride for as long as it is effective and well-tolerated. Continuous use is necessary to maintain its benefits, as stopping the medication will likely result in the return of hair loss. Some men take finasteride for many years without issues.

Erectile dysfunction (ED) is a possible side effect of finasteride, affecting a small percentage of users. While most men do not experience this side effect, those who do often find that the symptoms resolve after discontinuing the medication.

Finasteride is typically prescribed to adult men experiencing male pattern baldness. There is no specific age to start, but it is often recommended for men in their 20s and 30s when hair loss becomes noticeable. Consulting with a healthcare provider is crucial to determine the appropriate timing based on individual circumstances.

There is no evidence to suggest that finasteride adversely affects kidney function. However, as with any medication, it is essential to discuss your overall health and any existing kidney conditions with your healthcare provider before starting finasteride.

If you stop taking finasteride, any hair regrowth or prevention of further hair loss achieved during treatment will likely be lost within 6 to 12 months. Hair loss will typically resume to the level it would have been without treatment.

While rare, finasteride can potentially cause liver damage in some individuals. It is crucial to monitor liver function during treatment, especially in those with preexisting liver conditions. Any signs of liver issues, such as jaundice or elevated liver enzymes, should be promptly discussed with a healthcare provider.

If you are experiencing male pattern baldness and looking for a treatment option, consulting with a healthcare provider is the best way to determine if finasteride is right for you. Your provider will assess your hair loss pattern, overall health, and discuss potential benefits and risks before making a recommendation.

Picture of Janna Strong

Janna Strong

Janna Strong is a highly experienced dermatologist with over 15 years in the field. She has consulted for more than 500 individuals globally, offering expert advice and treatments. Her extensive experience and commitment to patient care make her a trusted authority in dermatology.

References

  1. FDA Drug Safety Communication: 5-alpha reductase inhibitors (5-ARIs) may increase the risk of a more serious form of prostate cancer. (2011, June 9). Retrieved from https://www.fda.gov/drugs/drug-safety-and-availability/fda-drug-safety-communication-5-alpha-reductase-inhibitors-5-aris-may-increase-risk-more-serious
  2. Badri, S. & Saleh, D. (2021, April 13). Minoxidil. StatPearls. Retrieved from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK482378/
  3. Hu, R., et al. (2015, September-October). Combined treatment with oral finasteride and topical minoxidil in male androgenetic alopecia: a randomized and comparative study in Chinese patients. Dermatologic Therapy. 28 (5), 303-308. Retrieved from https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1111/dth.12246
  4. Shapiro, J., & Kaufman, K. D. (2015, December 16). Use of finasteride in the treatment of men with androgenetic alopecia (male pattern hair loss). Journal of Investigative Dermatology Symposium Proceedings. Retrieved March 31, 2022, from https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0022202X15529357
  5. Bistas, K., et al. (2021, March 27). Finasteride. StatPearls. Retrieved from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK513329/
  6. Ho, P.M., et al. (2021, May 5). Androgenetic Alopecia. StatPearls. Retrieved from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK430924/
  7. Kaufman, K.D., et al. (1998, October). Finasteride in the treatment of men with androgenetic alopecia. Finasteride Male Pattern Hair Loss Study Group. Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology. 39 (4 Pt 1), 578-89. Retrieved from https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/9777765/
  8. Yanagisawa, M., et al. (2019, January). Long-term (10-year) efficacy of finasteride in 523 Japanese men with androgenetic alopecia. Clinical Research and Trials. 5, 1-5. Retrieved from https://www.researchgate.net/publication/337105943_Long-term_10-year_efficacy_of_finasteride_in_523_Japanese_men_with_androgenetic_alopecia
  9. Do You Have Hair Loss or Hair Shedding? (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/hair-loss/insider/shedding
  10. Hughes, E.C. & Saleh, D. (2021, June 8). Telogen Effluvium. StatPearls. Retrieved from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK430848/
  11. Lepe, K. & Zito, P.M. (2021, January 7). Alopecia Areata. StatPearls. Retrieved from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK537000/
  12. Finasteride. (2018, January 15). Retrieved from https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a698016.html
  13. PROPECIA® (finasteride) tablets for oral use. (2012, April). Retrieved from https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2012/020788s020s021s023lbl.pdf
  14. Dinh, Q., Sinclair, R. (2007). Female pattern hair loss: Current treatment concepts. Clinical Interventions in Aging, 2(2), 189-199.
  15. Gupta, A. K., Charrette, A. (2018). Topical minoxidil: Systematic review and meta-analysis of its efficacy in androgenetic alopecia. Skin Appendage Disorders, 4(1), 1-11.
  16. Traish, A. M., Hassani, J., Guay, A. T., Zitzmann, M., Hansen, M. L. (2011). Adverse side effects of 5α-reductase inhibitors therapy: Persistent diminished libido and erectile dysfunction and depression in a subset of patients. The Journal of Sexual Medicine, 8(3), 872-884.
  17. Ganzer, C. A., Jacobs, A. R. (2016). Emotional consequences of Finasteride: Fool’s gold. International Journal of Men’s Health, 15(3), 282-295.
  18. Liu, L., Zhao, S., Li, F., Li, E., Kang, R., Luo, L., et al. (2020). The efficacy and safety of topical minoxidil combined with oral finasteride in androgenetic alopecia: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Dermatology and Therapy, 10(3), 477-490.