What is Finasteride?
Finasteride is the only licensed oral medication available in the UK for male pattern baldness. The branded name of this medication is Propecia. Men with mild to moderate, but not complete hair loss, can benefit from Finasteride (Propecia).
How does Finasteride work?
Finasteride tablets increases hair growth on the scalp and prevents further hair loss in men as it contains the active ingredient finasteride. Finasteride specifically inhibits the enzyme 5-alpha reductase inhibitor, which converts testosterone into the more potent metabolite dihydrotestosterone. Finasteride (Propecia) helps reverse the balding process and leads to increased hair growth and prevention of further hair loss by lowering the levels of dihydrotestosterone in the scalp.
How effective is Finasteride?
In a five-year study Finasteride (Propecia) was found to have a positive effect in 9 out of 10 men suffering from male pattern baldness, with 48% of men showing hair growth and 42% showing no further hair loss. Finasteride (Propecia) does not affect hair on other parts of the body other than the scalp.
How do I take Finasteride?
Finasteride 1mg tablets should be taken once a day for at least 3-6 months before any benefit is seen. This medication should be taken regularly as its effects may be reversed 6-12 months after discontinuation of treatment. You can take this medication with or without food.
