Finasteride – Does It Work?

Finasteride (also marketed under various other brand names such as Propecia) is a product aimed at those men suffering certain forms of hair loss.

The human body contains an enzyme that converts part of the so–called male sex hormone testosterone into a strong androgen called DHT (Dihydrotestosterone).

DHT plays an important role in several areas of the development of secondary sexual characteristics including the prostate. It also exists in females though, typically, to a lesser extent. For some time it has been recognized that DHT, along with genetics, plays a role in the development of several prostate conditions including some that are malignant and dangerous.

Finasteride was a drug originally developed to inhibit the action of the enzyme that creates DHT, thereby leading to a reduction in the further spread of prostate-related conditions in those affected.

Male pattern baldness implications

One of the effects noted in trails of the product was that hair growth was affected.

Individuals that were suffering from hair thinning (male pattern baldness) suddenly found that the rate of loss was reduced. In some cases, hair re-growth appeared to commence in areas of the head that had become effectively bald spots previously.

Presumed relationship to Finasteride

DHT is also recognized as a contributory factor in the progression of male pattern baldness. It acts to shrink and reduce the hair follicles just under the scalp and inhibit hair growth.

As DHT production is inhibited and reduced by Finasteride, a secondary effect is sometimes seen on hair growth as a result.

Finasteride is now one of only two drugs (the other being Minoxidil) licensed by the FDA for use in the treatment of male pattern baldness.

Unlike Minoxidil, it is currently only available via prescription.

Efficacy

This is sometimes disputed but some general summary points are perhaps possible:

• Its effects on the ‘hairline’ area of the head (and reducing hairline) may be less pronounced than on areas of the head that are further back, such as the traditional bald spots on the crown. The reasons for this are not entirely clear.
• Effects may be most evidenced on thinning areas that have perhaps not become entirely bald and that have not been very thin for lengthy periods of time;
• Significant percentages of men may experience no or only very minor effects – the manufacturers claim around 9/10 men will notice a difference.

Women

Finasteride is known to put fetuses at risk in terms of abnormal genital development.

For that reason it must not be used by pregnant women. Some authorities suggest that any woman capable of becoming pregnant should not use it.

It is sometimes used for post-menopausal women but the effects on hair loss seem much less in evidence and many physicians are very reluctant to prescribe it for females.

Sometimes it is recommended that women of childbearing age should not even handle Finasteride, though the pills are coated to make them safe for women to touch under normal circumstances.

Side effects

As per any strong medication, there may be a variety of side effects.

In fact, these are moderately severe in only a relatively small percentage of users (according to the manufacturers statistics). However, those effects may include a reduction in libido and impotence/sexual dysfunction.

These affects seem to disappear if the medication is discontinued and if using Finasteride, it’s important to keep in touch with the prescribing physician if any side effects are noted.

Durations and hair effects

Some users report a rapid re-commencing of hair loss once the medication is discontinued and the manufacturers advise that this may be the case.

It’s also important to recognize the difference between a reduction in the rate of hair loss and the restoration of growth. Some people may experience the former rather than the latter.