Finasteride Tablet

Finasteride is an FDA-approved oral medication used to treat male pattern baldness (androgenetic alopecia). It works by inhibiting 5-alpha reductase, an enzyme that converts testosterone into dihydrotestosterone (DHT)—a hormone responsible for hair loss in genetically predisposed individuals. By blocking this conversion, Finasteride helps preserve hair follicles, preventing further miniaturization and hair shedding.

How Does Finasteride Work?

By blocking the production of DHT, Finasteride helps reduce hair follicle shrinkage, slows hair loss, and in many cases, promotes hair regrowth. Clinical studies suggest that over 85% of men who take Finasteride experience a reduction in hair loss, with 66% noticing visible regrowth over time. The medication works by maintaining follicle health, allowing hair strands to remain in the growth phase longer and delaying hair thinning progression. Long-term use is recommended for sustained results.

Benefits of Finasteride

• Reduces DHT Levels: Significantly lowers DHT in the scalp and bloodstream, reducing hair follicle shrinkage.
• Slows Hair Loss: Stops further thinning and stabilizes hair loss progression, preventing continued hair follicle miniaturization.
• Promotes Regrowth: Some users see noticeable regrowth within 3-6 months, particularly at the crown where follicle activity is still present.
• Convenient Oral Treatment: Taken as a once-daily 1mg pill, making it easy to incorporate into daily routines without additional maintenance.
• Clinically Proven Effectiveness: Backed by multiple long-term studies showing its effectiveness in preventing hair loss and maintaining hair density over time.

Who Should Use Finasteride?

Finasteride is primarily prescribed for men experiencing hair thinning or receding hairlines due to androgenetic alopecia. It is not recommended for women, especially pregnant women, due to potential birth defects. It is most effective in men under 40 who still have active hair follicles, as completely bald areas may not respond as well to treatment. Consultation with a doctor is necessary before starting the medication to assess suitability based on medical history.

How Long Does It Take to Work?

• 3-6 months: Slows hair loss and stabilizes shedding, with some users noticing a decrease in hair fall.
• 6-12 months: Noticeable improvements in hair thickness and regrowth, particularly in areas where hair was thinning but follicles were still active.
• 1 year+: Continued maintenance and regrowth; stopping treatment may reverse benefits, leading to the resumption of hair loss within a few months.

Possible Side Effects

While generally well-tolerated, some men may experience:

• Lowered libido – A small percentage of users report a mild decrease in sexual desire, which often resolves with continued use.
• Erectile dysfunction (rare) – Less than 2% of men experience temporary difficulty with erections, which typically improves upon discontinuation.
• Reduced semen volume – A minor reduction in ejaculate volume has been noted but does not impact fertility.
• Mild dizziness or fatigue – Some users may feel lightheaded or more tired than usual, especially when first starting the medication.

Most side effects resolve upon discontinuation of the medication, and studies show that long-term use does not result in permanent side effects for the vast majority of users.

Scientific Studies Supporting Finasteride

1. Gupta AK, Charrette A. ‘The Efficacy and Safety of 5α-Reductase Inhibitors in Androgenetic Alopecia: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.’ Dermatol Ther. (2020). https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/9777765/
2. Indian Journal of Dermatology, Venereology, and Leprology – Studies on the effectiveness of Finasteride in Indian men. https://ijdvl.com/guidelines-on-the-use-of-finasteride-in-androgenetic-alopecia/
3. Clinical Drug Research India – Report on long-term effects of Finasteride. https://www.oatext.com/Long-term-%2810-year%29-efficacy-of-finasteride-in-523-Japanese-men-with-androgenetic-alopecia.php
4. CDSCO (Central Drugs Standard Control Organization) approval data for Finasteride. https://cdsco.gov.in/opencms/opencms/en/Home/

Finasteride vs. Minoxidil

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I take Finasteride and Minoxidil together?
   Yes! Using both together enhances hair regrowth by addressing different causes of hair loss. Minoxidil stimulates new hair growth, while Finasteride prevents further hair loss by blocking DHT.
2. Will stopping Finasteride reverse my results?
   Yes, stopping treatment may cause DHT levels to rise again, leading to hair loss resumption within months. Continued use is recommended for long-term benefits.
3. Do I need a prescription?
   Yes, Finasteride is a prescription-only medication. A doctor consultation is required to determine if it is the right treatment for you.