Finasteride For Hair Loss: Uses, Dosage & Side Effects

Hair loss, scientifically known as alopecia, is a common condition and can be a distressing experience, affecting self-esteem and confidence. Among various treatments available, a proven solution is Finasteride for hair loss. This comprehensive guide delves into the intricacies, answering questions like – can Finasteride regrow hair? What are Finasteride uses for hair? – along with benefits and potential side effects.  This article gives you a thorough understanding of how Finasteride can help with hair loss. The article also answers common questions related to its use.

How Does Finasteride Work For Hair Loss?

Finasteride helps reduce hair loss and promotes hair growth by blocking the enzyme 5-alpha-reductase, which changes testosterone into dihydrotestosterone (DHT). When DHT levels decrease, it prevents hair follicles from shrinking, thus slowing down hair loss. It further promotes hair regrowth among men with androgenetic alopecia or male pattern baldness.

Finasteride Uses For Hair

Finasteride helps treat the following concerns:

1. Pattern Baldness (Androgenetic Alopecia):

This is the most common type of hair loss. This progressive hair-thinning condition is characterised by a receding hairline and a thinning crown and can lead to the loss of all the hair on the head. Finasteride is an FDA-approved medication proven to treat male pattern baldness. Studies have shown that Finasteride promotes hair growth in about 66% of men after using it for 2 years, with almost 83% maintaining their existing hair. [1]

2. Hormonal Hair Loss:

Hair loss and hair thinning can occur due to irregular thyroid levels, polycystic ovary syndrome(PCOS), hormonal fluctuations during pregnancy, menopause, stress and androgenetic alopecia. PCOS particularly can cause hair loss and also excessive hair growth, a condition known as hirsutism. Finasteride is proven to work in a few cases of PCOS by blocking androgens in hair follicles, reducing hair loss and excessive hair growth. [2] But it can result in potential side effects.

Benefits Of Finasteride For Hair Loss

Finasteride helps in the following ways for hair loss:

1. Stops Further Hair Loss & Shedding: By inhibiting the hormone DHT, Finasteride prevents the progression of hair loss and thinning.
2. Promotes Hair Regrowth: Finasteride stimulates dormant follicles, leading to the formation of new hair.
3. Improves Hair Thickness: Finasteride enhances the volume and density of the existing hair strands.
4. Supports Hair Maintenance: Using Finasteride as per your dermatologist’s recommendation can help maintain your hair health, strength and density.

How To Use Finasteride For Hair Loss?

The first and the most important rule of taking Finasteride is to consult a doctor first and
to follow your doctor’s instructions.

Further, here are some other common things to keep in mind while using it:

• Doctors recommend 1mg per day for hair loss (more information on dosage below), and the key is to be consistent.
• Don’t take more than recommended.
• In case you miss a dose, skip it. Continue your regular dosing schedule. Don’t take double doses.
• Try to take it at the same time each day.
• Have the tablet (don’t crush or break it) with a glass of water with or without food.
• You must use it for at least 3 months before you see the change.
• Continued use is important to maintain hair regrowth.

Keep in mind that you will experience some side effects (see section below). Further, pregnant women are advised against using it.

Difference Between Oral And Topical Finasteride For Hair Loss

Feature	Oral Finasteride for hair loss	Topical Finasteride for hair loss
Form	Tablet	Solution or Gel
Mechanism of Action	Systemic absorption, affects DHT levels throughout the body	Localised absorption, targets DHT levels in the scalp
Efficacy	Reduces hair loss and promotes hair regrowth	Reduces hair loss with potentially fewer side effects
Common Side Effects	Sexual dysfunction, decreased libido, erectile dysfunction, decreased semen volume	Local scalp irritation, dryness, itching
Results	3-6 months for visible results	Similar timeline; could take longer due to localised action
Usage Frequency	Daily	Daily or as prescribed
Prescription Requirement	Yes	Yes
Impact on Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) Levels	Can lower PSA levels, affecting prostate cancer screening	Minimal impact on PSA levels
Cost	Generally lower	Generally higher
Doctor Supervision	Regular follow-ups recommended	Regular follow-ups recommended
Interaction with Other Medications	Possible interactions due to systemic absorption	Minimal interactions due to localised action
Long-term Safety	Well-studied with known long-term side effects	Less data on long-term safety but promising short-term results

Finasteride For Hair Loss Side Effects

While Finasteride is effective for hair loss, it can cause side effects as it induces hormonal changes. Remember to follow your dermatologist’s instructions without fail to minimise them.

• Swelling or bloating in your hands, feet, lips, breasts or feet:

This is a less common side effect where fluid accumulates in the said areas.

• Headaches:

Some people experience mild to severe headaches while the body is adjusting to the medication.

• Rhinorrhea:

Commonly known as runny nose, this is your body’s reaction to the drug and subsides as your body adjusts to it.

• Rashes:

Some people may develop rashes as an allergic reaction to the drug. Speak to your dermatologist as soon you notice rashes.

• Depression:

Due to Finasteride’s effect on hormonal levels, some people might experience a dip in their mood, sometimes as far as being depressed. Inform your dermatologist immediately.

• Dizziness:

This is a temporary side effect where you might feel lightheaded or dizzy, especially when you stand up quickly. You can manage it by standing up slowly.

• Decreased sex drive:

With an impact on your hormone levels, Finasteride can reduce your sex drive. This often comes back to normal once you stop using it.

• Erectile dysfunction:

Some men experience difficulty in achieving and maintaining an erection.

• Breast tenderness:

You might feel discomfort and increased sensitivity in the breast tissue due to hormonal changes by the drug.

• Testicular pain:

Some users experience pain or discomfort in their testicles due to hormonal fluctuations.

• Decreased ejaculation volume:

Finasteride can reduce the sperm count and semen volume in some men, but it is temporary.

• Breast enlargement:

Some men experience an increase in the size of their breast tissue, a condition known as gynecomastia.

• Nipple discharge:

In rare cases, people experience unusual discharge from the nipples. Consult your dermatologist immediately.

Treatments Combined With Finasteride For Hair Loss

PRP Hair Treatment:

Platelet-rich Plasma treatment involves injecting the individual’s platelets into the hair-loss areas of the scalp to stimulate hair growth. When combined with Finasteride, it helps in better absorption and improves the results.

Dutasteride:

Like Finasteride, Dutasteride is also a medication that blocks DHT. You can combine them for improved results, but strictly under medical supervision.

Minoxidil:

This is another effective topical application that promotes hair growth. Using Minoxidil along with Finasteride can help further.

Dutasteride Vs Finasteride For Hair Loss

Aspect	Dutasteride	Finasteride
Drug Class	5-alpha reductase inhibitor	5-alpha reductase inhibitor
FDA Approved	No	Yes
Common Brand Names	Avodart, Duprost	Propecia, Proscar
Mechanism	Inhibits both Type I and Type II 5-alpha reductase enzymes	Inhibits Type II 5-alpha reductase enzyme
Effectiveness	Highest, as it inhibits both enzymes	Less effective compared to Dutasteride
Dosage	0.5 mg daily	1 mg daily
Onset of Action	Typically 3-6 months	Typically 3-6 months
Results	Full results may take up to 12 months	Full results may take up to 12 months
Half-Life	Approximately 5 weeks	Approximately 6-8 hours
Side Effects	Higher incidence of sexual side effects, breast tenderness, depression	Lower incidence of sexual side effects, breast tenderness, depression
Use in Women	Not recommended due to high risk of birth defects	Not recommended due to risk of birth defects
Cost	Expensive	Cheaper compared to Dutasteride
Off-Label Uses	Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), other androgen-related conditions	Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH)
Clinical Studies	Studies indicate higher efficacy in hair regrowth compared to Finasteride	Well-studied with proven efficacy in hair regrowth

Frequently Asked Questions On Finasteride For Hair Loss

Q1. Who Cannot Take Finasteride?

A1. Dermatologist do not advise Finasteride for hair loss in females and children. Further, those who are allergic to the Finasteride or similar medications, those bladder and/or liver concerns and those who experience signs of depression. [3]

Women with PCOS who might benefit from it should do it strictly under the supervision of a qualified and experienced dermatologist.

Q2. Does Finasteride 1mg Regrow Hair?

A2. Yes. Usually, dermatologists recommend 1mg Finasteride per day to treat androgenetic alopecia.

Q3. How Long Does Finasteride Take To Regrow Hair?

A3. Finasteride takes 3-4 months to give you noticeable hair regrowth results.

Q4. Can Finasteride Help Hair Loss From PCOS?

A4. Research shows that Finasteride works in some cases of PCOS, but it is critical that you consult a dermatologist. They will check the suitability before prescribing it to you.

Q5. Why Is My Hair Still Falling Out After Finasteride?

A5. Hair shedding is common when you start using Finasteride, a sign that the drug is working. Follow your dermatologist’s instructions and continue using it as advised.

Q6. Does Finasteride Work For Hair Loss In Women?

A6. Dermatologists do not recommend Finasteride for women as it can cause harmful side effects.

Q7. Does Finasteride Affect Facial Hair Growth In Men?

A7. No, Finasteride does not affect facial hair growth. It is proven to only improve hair growth on the scalp. [4]

Q8. Minoxidil Vs Finasteride For Treating Hair Loss?

A8. Minoxidil is a topical solution that is effective to treat early stages of hair loss by stimulating the growth of hair follicles, whereas Finasteride is taken orally and works at a hormonal level.

Q9. Does Finasteride Cause Hair Shedding?

A9. Yes, Finasteride causes hair loss initially, but you need not worry as this helps make way for new hair.

Q10. Is Finasteride Safe For Hair Loss?

A10. Yes, absolutely! It is an FDA-approved drug proven to be effective for early stages of patterned baldness.

Q11. Can Finasteride Permanently Stop Hair Loss?

A11. Finasteride can reduce hair loss and stop it for as long as it is taken. It cannot reverse or stop hair loss permanently.

Q12. Does Finasteride Thicken Existing Hair?

A12. Some studies show that Finasteride can improve hair density on the scalp, but it is important to note that the results vary from person to person and depends on the type and severity of hair loss.

Q13. Is 5mg Of Finasteride Too Much For Hair Loss?

A13. 5mg of Finasteride for hair loss is excessive and can cause severe side effects. Dermatologists usually prescribe 1mg of Finasteride to be taken orally per day after thoroughly analysing your hair loss condition.            

Q14. Does Finasteride Work If You Are Already Bald?

A14. The effect of Finasteride on bald individuals is limited. It is effective for those in early stages of patterned baldness as it slows down the progression of hair loss.

Q15. Is Finasteride A High Risk Medication?

A15. Yes, and it is absolutely necessary that you use it as per the instructions of your doctor.

Q16. Does Finasteride Affect Sperm?

A16. Yes, studies have shown that Finasteride can affect sperm count, motility and male fertility. However, the sperm usually returns to normal when you stop the medication. We highly recommend that you talk about this with your dermatologist before you opt for the treatment.

Q17. Are Finasteride Side Effects Permanent?

A17. Usually, Finasteride side effects go away when you stop taking the medication. But there have been reports of a condition known as post-Finasteride syndrome where side effects persist and the reasons are still being studied. Remember, you are safe as long as you choose a certified and experienced dermatologist for your hair loss.

Q18. Does Finasteride Change Hair Colour?

A18. Finasteride does not cause hair colour to change, but there is some anecdotal evidence that it can make your hair appear more pigmented, thicker and longer as it stimulates and improves hair growth. This varies from person to person and may not work for everyone.

Takeaway

We trust that this article has all the information about Finasteride for hair loss. While this information is verified and expansive, answering all your questions, make sure to consult a dermatologist before opting for it. Take it only under their supervision and monitoring to minimise Finasteride side effects.