The Benefits of Using Finasteride for Hair Loss
Worried about hair loss? You’re not alone! About half of all men experience male-pattern baldness by the age of 50. But don’t stress—there are solutions, and one popular option at Leonard Hair Transplant Associates is Finasteride.
Finasteride’s popularity has skyrocketed in recent years. According to an Epic Research report by NBC News, prescriptions have jumped nearly 200% over the past seven years. This boost in usage shows how effective it is, though it has also brought some side effects to light. The most common ones include decreased sex drive, trouble maintaining erections, and reduced semen production. But don’t be too concerned—these side effects are rare, affecting less than 1% of men who take the drug.
Initially developed to treat an enlarged prostate, Finasteride was later approved by the FDA for hair loss treatment, providing a reliable option for those dealing with androgenetic alopecia (male-pattern baldness). This condition causes gradual thinning of hair on the scalp, leading to significant hair loss over time.
The medication works by blocking an enzyme called 5-alpha reductase, which converts testosterone into dihydrotestosterone (DHT). High DHT levels shrink hair follicles and shorten the hair growth cycle, causing hair loss. By lowering DHT levels, Finasteride helps slow down this process, preserving your hair and even promoting regrowth in some cases.
Finasteride is available in different dosages, with the 1mg tablet specifically being marketed for androgenetic alopecia (male pattern baldness). However, due to cost considerations, some patients may obtain the 5mg tablets and split them into quarters to approximate the 1mg dose used for hair loss treatment. This practice can be more economical because 5mg tablets may be cheaper per milligram than the 1mg tablets, even though the medication is the same.
One key consideration is that Finasteride is usually not covered by insurance because male-pattern baldness is often seen as a cosmetic issue. Plus, once you start taking Finasteride, you’ll need to keep using it to maintain its benefits. Stopping the medication will likely lead to a return of hair loss.
If you’re thinking about trying Finasteride, it’s important to consult your doctor. They can evaluate your hair loss and discuss the potential benefits and risks of using Finasteride, helping you make an informed decision. Leonard Hair Transplant Associates offers complimentary consultations to see if Finasteride is the right treatment for you.
Dr. Matthew Lopresti