Hair Loss

Finasteride 1mg is an oral tablet, prescription medicine that is FDA approved to treat male pattern baldness. At a higher strength of 5mg, Finasteride is FDA approved to treat BPH (Benign prostatic hyperplasia).

Finasteride belongs to a group of drugs called 5-alpha reductase inhibitors. It works by blocking the conversion of Testosterone to DHT by up to 70% and therefore lowers DHT levels in the body and at the scalp. Lowering DHT will allow your hair to start the process of growing back.

Results will begin appearing after 3-4 months but significant results may not be apparent for 6-9 months after starting the medication. Full results are usually seen approximately 1 year after starting treatment with Finasteride and using the medication on a daily basis. Patients who skip treatment days, weeks, or months may find that the medication does not work as effectively and does not produce the results they were expecting.

Finasteride comes as a tablet to take by mouth. It is usually taken once a day with or without food. Take finasteride at around the same time every day. Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully. Take finasteride exactly as directed. Do not take more or less of it or take it more often than prescribed by your doctor.

The most commonly reported side effects can include decreased libido (1.8%), erectile dysfunction (1.3%), ejaculation disorder (1.2%), increase in breast size or tenderness (0.4%), and skin rash (0.5%). It is important that women of child-bearing age do not take or handle Finasteride as it may cause birth defects.

If you forget to take your daily dose of Finasteride, skip the missed dose and continue your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.

Keep this medication in the original container that you received it in, tightly closed, and out of reach of children. Store it at room temperature and away from excess heat and moisture (not in the bathroom).