Important aspects about this medication
Finasteride (also known as Propecia or Proscar) is taken orally in the form of tablets. Originally, it was and continues to be used primarily for the treatment of Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH). The mechanism by which Finasteride works in the prostate is by blocking the conversion of the male hormone testosterone to another hormone called dihydrotestosterone (DHT).
It achieves its action by blocking the type II 5-alpha-reductase enzyme. In cases treated for BPH, it was observed that a side effect was the slowing down of hair loss and, in some cases, regrowth of hair. This side effect occurs because one of the causes of male pattern baldness is the action of DHT on the degeneration of the hair follicle.
The most recent research shows that Finasteride is 83% effective in slowing down or even stopping the process of hair loss in cases of male pattern baldness. It also indicates a 30% chance of significantly regrowing new hair from a cosmetic perspective. The results of using Finasteride should start to be evident after around 3 or 4 months of use.
A side effect that has emerged from this research is the possibility of a 1 in 200 (0.5%) chance of developing a certain degree of impotence or decreased libido. Sexual function returned to normal in 60% of those experiencing these side effects who did not discontinue the medication, and it was also reversible upon stopping the treatment. Any benefit gained from using Finasteride will be lost within a few months of discontinuing the medication. For real and more detailed information regarding the adverse effects of consuming 1mg daily of Finasteride in the treatment of Androgenetic Alopecia, you can refer to this ISHRS link (http://www.ishrs.org/pr-pr34.htm).
Finasteride is not suitable for pre-menopausal women. Women of childbearing age should not take or even handle broken tablets. A potential complication is the occurrence of genital deformities (Hypospadias) in the newborn if the mother ingests Finasteride or has contact with such tablets during pregnancy. After menopause, Finasteride may become a potential treatment for controlling hair loss in women.
Finasteride for hair loss is marketed as Propecia, available in a 1 mg dose, and is administered as 1 tablet daily. A 5 mg dose of Finasteride is indicated only for the treatment of Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia.
