Finasteride (Propecia)
What is Finasteride?
Finasteride (Propecia) is an oral medication used most commonly for androgenetic alopecia, also called male pattern hair loss. It works best for patients whose hair loss is driven by sensitivity to dihydrotestosterone, often shortened to DHT.
It is primarily used in men, though in selected situations hair-loss specialists may discuss related treatment strategies for women. Because of pregnancy-related safety concerns, this medication is not appropriate during pregnancy and is not a routine hair-loss medication for women who are pregnant or may become pregnant. Women who are pregnant or may become pregnant should not handle crushed or broken tablets.
How does Finasteride work?
Finasteride reduces the conversion of testosterone to dihydrotestosterone. Lowering DHT levels can help slow continued miniaturization of hair follicles and in some patients improve hair density over time.
What are possible side effects of Finasteride?
Finasteride is often well tolerated, but possible side effects can include:
Decreased libido
Erectile dysfunction or changes in sexual function
Reduced ejaculate volume
Breast tenderness or enlargement in uncommon cases
Mood changes in some patients
As with most hair-loss medications, the risk-benefit discussion is individualized.
How is Finasteride used?
Finasteride is taken by mouth on a long-term basis when it is prescribed for hair loss. Benefits are gradual and usually take time to appreciate. If the medication is stopped, the benefit is often gradually lost.
Important precautions include:
Women who are pregnant or may become pregnant should not take finasteride
Crushed or broken tablets should not be handled during pregnancy
Finasteride is often used alongside other hair-loss treatments such as topical minoxidil or oral minoxidil