Finasteride
Finasteride was originally developed for the management of prostate conditions
such as benign prostate enlargement.
Part of the group of medicines - 5-alpha reductase inhibitors.
It reduces the production of DHT by blocking the conversion of Testosterone by the enzme 5-alpha reductase (5AR).
For Male Pattern Baldness the usual dose is 1mg, taken once a day. It needs to be taken for 3-6 months before any benefit is seen and the effects are reversed 6-12 months after treatment is discontinued.
Reducing the production of DHT in males with male pattern baldness enables:
1.The anagen phase of the hair growth cycle to lengthen.
2.Reduces the miniaturisation of hair follicles – which if able to recover, regrowth may occur
Finasteride is not suitable for males who:
- Have had an allergic reaction to finasteride or any other medicines in the past
- Have severe bladder problems
- Have liver problems
- Are trying for a baby or have a pregnant partner – this medicine passes into semen and can affect an unborn baby
Common 1 in 100 people
They usually improve after a while.
- problems getting an erection and less interest in having sex.
- problems with ejaculating, such as little or no semen.
Serious – Rare in less that 1 in 1000 people
May notice these after taking finasteride for a few months. Refer to GP if:
- any lumps, pain or swelling in your chest area or discharge from your nipples – these may be signs of a serious condition such as breast cancer.
- unusually low mood (depression) or thoughts of harming yourself.
Serious allergic reaction
- In rare cases, finasteride may cause anaphylaxis.