| Finasteride was initially marketed to treat prostate | | | | androgenetic hair loss which usually follows this |
| conditions under the name Proscar in 5mg pills. It was | | | | process: |
| known to inhibit the formation of DHT, a major | | | | 1. High levels of an enzyme known as |
| contributor to both prostate cancer and male pattern | | | | 5-alpha-reductase occur in cells of the hair follicle. |
| hair loss. | | | | 2. This enzyme converts testosterone into DHT. |
| Subsequent research showed that a 1mg daily dose | | | | 3. DHT causes miniaturization of robust terminal hairs. |
| of the same drug was sufficient to control hair loss | | | | 4. This results in fine, soft vellus hairs that provide |
| for 83% of men after two years of treatment. Since | | | | limited scalp coverage. |
| 1998 this version has been marketed under the brand | | | | 5. The growth phase gradually shortens until these |
| name Propecia and it remains the only prescription | | | | hairs are lost permanently. |
| drug approved by the FDA specifically to treat hair | | | | Propecia inhibits the formation of DHT and over a |
| loss. This approval extends only to men's hair loss | | | | period of several months reduces levels of DHT |
| because of the dangers finasteride presents to | | | | sufficiently to minimize its effects on the hair follicle. |
| unborn male fetuses. Women of child bearing age | | | | As with any drug, finasteride can cause side effects |
| should therefore consult with their physician before | | | | to a minority of users. The FDA trials reported a 2% |
| considering the use of this drug. | | | | incidence of varying side effects but these tended to |
| The main purpose of Propecia is to halt hair loss and | | | | lessen as the body adjusted to the drug over a |
| maintain what hair coverage is left. It is therefore | | | | period of months. Although Propecia or cheaper |
| popular with younger men who want to control hair | | | | generic versions are easily obtained on the internet it |
| loss at an early stage. Men of all ages use it in | | | | is strongly recommended that you seek the advice |
| combination with minoxidil to achieve a hair loss | | | | of your doctor, at least in the first instance. |
| strategy that both halts hair loss and encourages | | | | You can find out more about Propecia and other hair |
| new growth. | | | | loss treatments at the site listed below. |
| Propecia works by interfering with the process of | | | | |