Finasteride at Curely

Treatment Details

Treatment Details
Overview
Side Effects
Directions
More Information

What Is Finasteride?
Finasteride 1mg tablets (generic Propecia) are an inexpensive UK prescription-only medication that is issued to men to tackle hair loss and male pattern baldness (also known as androgenetic alopecia). They are the unbranded, generic, and cheaper version of the popular hair loss drug Propecia, which has the same drug finasteride as its active ingredient. Just as effective, Finasteride is fast becoming a popular low-cost alternative to expensive branded hair loss treatments for men. Finasteride is taken orally. Clinical studies have shown it to have up to a 90% success rate in combating hair loss and increasing hair growth in men, but it is not suitable to be taken by women. Please note that Finasteride is a baldness treatment, not a cure. You need to keep taking it for it to be effective.
How Does Finasteride Work?
Finasteride works by targeting the hormone dihydrotestosterone (DHT), which is responsible for making hair follicles smaller and causing hair loss. By inhibiting the enzyme that converts testosterone into DHT, Finasteride halts hair loss and allows existing follicles to recover, often leading to some level of hair regrowth.
It's important to note that Finasteride is a long-term commitment, usually showing results after 3-6 months of daily use. Discontinuing the medication reverses its benefits. As a prescription-only medication, it's crucial to consult a healthcare provider for proper diagnosis and understand potential side effects before starting the treatment.

Type of medicine	5-alpha reductase inhibitor
Works by	Blocks conversion of testosterone into dihydrotestosterone (dihydrotestosterone shrinks hair follicles in the scalp)
Active ingredient	Finasteride
Effective within	6 - 9 months
Pack size	28 Tablets
Strength	1mg
Generic	Yes
Use with alcohol	No known issues

What Are Possible Side Effects of Finasteride?
Please be aware that medication affects those taking it in different ways – people who take Finasteride will not necessarily experience any of the known side effects below. These are some of the known side effects of taking Finasteride:
Uncommon frequency: Affects between 1 and 10 people of every 1000:
· Decrease in sex drive
· Depression
· Ejaculation disorders – including a reduced volume of ejaculation
· Impotence – difficulty in achieving or maintaining an erection
Unknown frequency:
· Hypersensitivity reactions – including hives, itching, rash, or swelling of the face and lips
· Palpitations
· Tender or swollen breasts
· Testicular pain
Please note:
· Most men who take Finasteride respond well to the medication, and it is uncommon for men to experience side effects when taking Finasteride
· Side effects normally improve with time
· The increased risk of experiencing decreased libido, ejaculation disorder, erectile dysfunction, and impotence mainly comes during the first year of taking Finasteride and disappears after the medication has been taken for 2-4 years
· There have been cases reported of men experiencing continued erectile dysfunction or diminished libido after they have stopped taking Finasteride
· A March 2017 NHS Choices review of new research determined that where sexual problems do occur, almost all problems will be resolved if you stop taking Finasteride
· Taking Finasteride has been reported to cause suicidal thoughts in some men who took the medication
Finasteride Directions of Use
Before you start your journey with finasteride, you should know how to use it effectively:
· Those following a prescription of Finasteride should take one tablet once a day.
· The tablet should ideally be taken at the same time of the day, every day.
· If you are taking Finasteride, you are able to take the tablet with or without food.
· In order for Finasteride to be successful, it must be taken on a continual and daily basis and in the way outlined above.
· If a dosage of Finasteride is missed, then continue taking the medication as normal and DO NOT take an additional tablet to cover the missed dose.
· DO NOT take Finasteride in a greater dosage than that outlined above, as this won't increase the tablets' effectiveness and is not recommended.
How Long Should You Take Finasteride for?
Generally, it will take between 3-6 months to start seeing the results of your treatment. Finasteride is designed as a long-term preventative treatment for hair loss and can be safely taken for many years.
If you do decide to stop taking Finasteride, always consult your GP first, and bear in mind that any improvement to the quality of your hair will be lost should you choose to stop.
Patient Information Leaflet: https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/files/pil.791.pdf

Frequently asked questions

What is Finasteride, and how does it help with hair loss?
Finasteride is a prescription-only medication used to treat male pattern baldness by targeting the hormone dihydrotestosterone (DHT), which causes hair follicles to shrink. By inhibiting DHT production, Finasteride helps prevent further hair loss and may promote hair regrowth.
Is Finasteride the same as Propecia?
Yes, Finasteride is the generic version of Propecia. Both medications contain the same active ingredient, finasteride 1mg, and work similarly to combat hair loss.
What results can I expect from using Finasteride?
Results vary, but clinical studies suggest that Finasteride can lead to a 90% success rate in combating hair loss and increasing hair growth in men. Visible results typically appear after 3-6 months of consistent daily use.
Are there any common side effects associated with Finasteride?
While side effects are uncommon, they may include a decrease in sex drive, depression, ejaculation disorders, and impotence. It's essential to consult a healthcare provider for personalized advice before starting the treatment.
How long should I take Finasteride for?
Finasteride is a long-term commitment. To maintain its benefits, it's typically taken daily for many years. Discontinuing the medication can result in the reversal of its effects.
Can women use Finasteride for hair loss?
Finasteride is not suitable for use by women, especially pregnant women, due to potential risks to a developing male fetus.
What precautions should I take when using Finasteride?
It's essential to follow the prescribed dosage and usage instructions provided by your healthcare provider. Additionally, avoid donating blood while taking Finasteride to prevent potential exposure to pregnant women through transfusion.
How do I take Finasteride?
Finasteride is typically taken orally as a single 1mg tablet once a day, with or without food. It's important to take it consistently at the same time each day for optimal results.
What should I do if I miss a dose of Finasteride?
If you miss a dose, continue with your regular dosing schedule and do not take an additional tablet to make up for the missed one. Consistency is key for the effectiveness of Finasteride.
Is Finasteride safe for long-term use?
Finasteride has been used safely by many men for extended periods. While some side effects may occur, they often improve with time. However, it's crucial to discuss any concerns with your healthcare provider and undergo regular check-ups while using the medication.