Finasteride: What does it do?
Propecia (also known as Finasteride) is a medicine that treats male pattern baldness. The FDA approved it in 1992 for BPH treatment. In 1997, the FDA approved the drug for male pattern baldness treatment. The drug blocks the enzyme 5-alpha reduce, which converts Testosterone to dihydrotestosterone. DHT can cause hair loss in men. Finasteride reduces DHT levels and promotes hair growth.
Finasteride uses
Two conditions are treated by finasteride: benign prostatic hyperplasia and male pattern baldness. Clinical studies have shown that finasteride can reduce the severity of BPH symptoms by as much as 70% and male pattern baldness in men by as high a 60%. Finasteride is administered orally once daily, usually one time per day. It can also be combined with minoxidil.
Finasteride's purported benefits
Finasteride's primary advantage is the ability to reverse or slow down hair loss. Research has shown that finasteride is able to reduce the male pattern of baldness up to 60% and promote new hair growth. BPH symptoms such as difficulty urinating and frequent urination can be reduced by finasteride up to 70% . Finasteride is also linked with a lower risk of developing prostate cancer. However, more research will be needed.
Check out the side effects of Finasteride
Although finasteride can be tolerated well, some people may experience side effects. Finasteride can cause side effects such as decreased libido and erectile dysfunction. Side effects less common include breast tenderness and skin rashes. Finasteride may cause liver damage in rare cases. These side effects can be serious so you need to contact your doctor right away.
Expert opinions or professional views on Finasteride
Most experts agree that finasteride can be used to treat male pattern baldness as well as benign prostatic hyperplasia. They warn, however, that finasteride long-term usage may lead to side effects such as decreased sexual desire and erectile dysfunction. Experts warn that women should avoid finasteride while they are pregnant and breastfeeding because it may cause unborn birth defects.
Finasteride: How do you get started?
Finasteride can be purchased in tablets and should usually only be taken one time per day. Your doctor might recommend a dose of 1 mg daily, but your needs may dictate a lower or higher dosage. Finasteride should only be taken as directed by your doctor. Do not exceed this recommended dose. Finasteride can be purchased online and at many pharmacies.
Do you need to be aware of side effects?
Finasteride may cause side effects for some individuals. Side effects that are common include decreased libido and erectile dysfunction. Finasteride can increase your risk for certain forms of prostate cancer. Talk to your doctor immediately if you are concerned. Women who are breastfeeding or pregnant should not use finasteride as it may cause unborn birth defects.
Conclusion
Finasteride (or finasteride) is used to treat benign prostatic hyperplasia and male pattern baldness. The medication is well-tolerated and has been shown to reduce male pattern hair loss by as much as 60% , and to reduce symptoms of BPH by as much 70%. Finasteride comes in tablets and can be taken one time per day. Finasteride can be safe and effective but it can have side effects. Before you start the medication, make sure to speak to your doctor.