Finasteride

Finasteride is a medication that inhibits the action of an enzyme called 5-alpha-reductase. As a result, this medication prevents the conversion of testosterone to dihydrotestosterone (DHT), which is responsible for male pattern hair loss. However, it is important to note that the effects of finasteride on the scalp will only last as long as the medication is taken. Therefore, when the medication is discontinued, hair loss may resume. Additionally, finasteride is available in the form of 1mg tablets.

The suggested dose for Finasteride is one 1mg tablet per day, which can be taken with or without food. Additionally, it usually takes three to six months of daily treatment to observe any evidence of hair loss stabilisation. For continued effectiveness, it is recommended to use the medication continuously. Consequently, if treatment is discontinued, the positive effects will start to reverse within six months and return to their original state between 9 to 12 months.

Finasteride, the active ingredient in Propecia, is a medication used to treat hair loss in men. Interestingly, you can purchase cheaper generic finasteride compared to branded Propecia. The medication works by decreasing the production of dihydrotestosterone (DHT), which is a byproduct produced by the hair follicle. When there is too much DHT, the hair follicle shrinks and causes hair to grow thinner and shed more quickly.

Eventually, this leads to a much smaller hair follicle and a thin hair that does not grow out to the skin surface. However, finasteride prevents the conversion of testosterone to dihydrotestosterone, which slows the progression and allows for regrowth. It’s important to note that the treatment is only available for men and can also minimize and resolve hair thinning.

To begin with, Finasteride and Propecia are generally well tolerated. However, we do not recommend finasteride to men who are hypersensitive to finasteride or who have severe liver disease. 

Moreover, common side effects of finasteride include decreased libido, erectile dysfunction, and ejaculation disorder. It is worth noting that sexual dysfunction tends to occur during the first year of treatment and decreases with the duration of treatments. It is usually resolved when treatment is discontinued. 

Additionally, mood alterations have been reported and patients should stop taking the medication if feeling depressed or if they develop any suicidal ideation. It is important to speak to a clinician immediately if you experience a lump in your chest or breast. For full side effects, please refer to the patient information leaflet. 

Finally, on rare occasions, seek medical attention if you experience depression, breast enlargement, tenderness, lumps, or nipple discharge, pain in the testicles. You may also refer to more advice from the MHRA regarding potential risk of male breast cancer.

According to available data, it appears that younger men who have been balding for a shorter period and have smaller areas of baldness may respond to treatment sooner. Nonetheless, it is important to note that there is no firm evidence to support this claim, as responses to treatment can vary significantly from person to person.

Stabilization of hair loss can be expected following continuous use of Finasteride for 3-6 months. By the end of the year you should notice clear signs of hair regrowth. You will notice peak hair growth after 2 years, but treatment must be continued to maintain results. The beneficial effects begin to reverse by 6 months and return to before taking medication by 9-12 months.

Hair loss may occur due to an underlying cause. Patients should visit the GP if they suffer from the following as treatment of the underlying cause normally allow hair to regrow:

• Any profound shedding or rapid onset of hair loss
• Absent or reduced eyebrows or eyelashes
• Inflammation, papules or pustules, scaling or scarring of the scalp
• Severe infection, iron deficiency or hypothyroidism
• Some medication such as antidepressants or anticoagulants
• Change in diet or rapid weight loss
• Patients who are planning to father a child should consider to stop treatment.

Regaine (Minoxidil) is readily available over the counter from pharmacies.

Finasteride is a prescription only medicine and can only be prescribed by a clinician. Unfortunately, all hair loss treatments are not available to prescribe from the NHS and therefore GPs will charge for a private consultation and a prescription. You will also pay for the medication from a pharmacy. However The Family Chemist clinician can prescribe both Finasteride (Propecia) and Regaine free of charge and only charge for the medicines and have it delivered to you in 24 hours.

Finasteride 1 mg Film-coated Tablets – Patient Information Leaflet (PIL)

Hair loss – NHS (www.nhs.uk)

Alopecia UK Support Group

British Association of Dermatologists (bad.org.uk)

British Hair and Nail Soceity Leaflet