A Guide to Taking Finasteride for Male Pattern Baldness and Hair Loss
Male pattern baldness is a natural part of the aging process in men. It can still be a concern amongst men. As per a paper published on the topic of male Androgenetic Alopecia (MAA) on the official website of the National Library of Medicine, MAA affects around 30-50% of men after the age of 50. To cater to this problem, it is crucial for the doctor to properly understand the causes of hair loss and find possible treatments. This can help restore confidence and a youthful look among the affected people.
Possible alternatives to hair transplant
While a hair transplant is the ultimate treatment for male pattern baldness, it is invasive and expensive as compared to other non-invasive treatments. Moreover, due to the involvement of surgery, people often feel jittery about opting for a hair transplant procedure. For all such people, doctors suggest the regular use of several alternatives whose effect may last up to a few months to a few years. Prominent of these options include
- Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) Therapy
- Low-level Light (LLLT) Therapy
- Steroid injections
- Scalp micropigmentation
Besides, doctors also recommend the use of coconut oil, aloe vera, onion juice, and biotin. In addition, proper intake of iron and zinc in the diet also helps to deal with the situation of male pattern baldness to some extent.
Finasteride – A widely preferred medication
While all these methods are effective in their respective ways, most physicians suggest men use regular Medications – Finasteride (Propecia) and Minoxidil (Rogaine) to recuperate their hair loss condition.
Doctors find it highly effective as compared to a placebo. A research report also inferred the same, which is evident by the data in the table below.If you are wondering about a placebo, it is a dummy pill used for clinical trials or medical research. It assists scientists in evaluating the degree of efficacy of a new healthcare procedure, with the help of a dummy medicine. A placebo can be anything from a salt-water injection to a sugar pill or even fake surgery.
| Parameter | Finasteride Group | Placebo Group |
| Hair Count Improvement | 83% | 28% |
| Mechanism of Action | Suppresses DHT | Placebo |
| Duration of Study | Two years | Two years |
This blog discusses Finasteride in detail. It gives comprehensive information on the complexities of male pattern baldness, dosage of finasteride, its effects, dosage, and everything else that you should know before proceeding with your anti-hair fall regime. Let’s start with a deeper insight into male pattern baldness.
Understanding Baldness and Hair Loss in Men
Male Pattern Baldness or androgenetic alopecia is usually a hereditary condition amongst men. Besides, several hormonal changes, especially the production of dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a derivative of testosterone, can cause this problem.
In this condition, a person’s hair follicles can shrink considerably, which thins the hair. The person eventually starts losing a lot of hair in the long run. A receding hairline and balding on various spots on the head are clear examples of this condition. It can severely affect one’s confidence and appearance if not handled promptly.
What is Finasteride and what does it do?
Finasteride is the Holy Grail medicine for those suffering from Male Pattern Baldness. It is a medication under the category of 5-alpha-reductase inhibitors. Its functionality, based on the category, is all about inhibiting the enzyme 5-alpha-reductase.
This enzyme converts testosterone into DHT and affects hair growth in men. With the overall reduction of DHT in the body, Finasteride is efficiently able to prevent the shrinking of hair follicles and promote regrowth of the hair. Here are the findings of a renowned pharmacy regarding the consumption of Finasteride - the active ingredient contained in Propecia.
- The medicine has successfully proven to be effective in 90% of the men taking it in the context of male pattern baldness.
- People observed a break in hair fall within 6 to 12 months of using it
- 66% of respondents even confirmed a regrowth of their hair on its consumption
Nevertheless, you will need to consume propecia (consisting of Finasteride) for at least up to 3 months to observe the initial results. The best outcome will reflect on the consumption of this medicine regularly for 12 months.
Benefits of Finasteride
This medicine is beneficial for those suffering from androgenetic alopecia. Its primary benefit lies in its ability to slow down hair loss and promote hair regrowth in men. With consistent consumption, the patients can experience thicker and healthier hair, leading to a marked improvement in their appearance and self-confidence. The mode of administration of Finasteride is in the form of tablets, which makes the consumption much easier as prescribed. Finasteride is thus a convenient option, seamlessly fitting into daily routines.
Necessary Precautions
Finasteride works like magic for affected men, but there should be precautions in all cases. Do not start consuming Finasteride or any medicine without consultation. Pregnant women shall not consume this medicine to avoid any type of absorption, which can have adverse effects on the fetus. Your dosage and intake of Finasteride can furnish the best result when planned by a physician or a hair therapist. It is better to follow their guidelines as they have successfully analyzed your current state and medical history before recommending the necessary drugs.
Dosage of Finasteride
The standard dosage of Finasteride for male pattern baldness is typically 1 milligram per day, taken orally with or without food. It is vital to adhere to the prescribed dosage and the instructions provided by the healthcare provider for optimal results. Consistency in consumption is key; it is advisable not to miss even a single dose. In case you miss one, doubling the next dose to compensate is not advisable.
Taking Finasteride for Hair Loss
Finasteride is a beneficial medication for hair loss patients. However, it has its systematic process in which the patients must consume it to inflict positive changes. Moreover, it has a certain efficacy period. Here is a detailed analysis of these attributes so you can know better.
Consumption
- Initiating Finasteride signifies the start of a transformative journey toward hair restoration and improved self-confidence.
- Regular and timely consumption, preferably at the same time every day, ensures a consistent presence of the medication in the system, maximizing its effectiveness.
- Setting reminders or integrating them into daily routines can facilitate this regularity better.
Effect
The effects of Finasteride, just like any regular medication, are not immediate. On top of that, every person may experience effects at different intervals of time based on their health and conditions.
- Hair regrowth and increased thickness often take several months to become visible.
- It is advisable to maintain patience during this process and stay consistent with your dosage.
- Have regular checkups with your doctor in between, and monitor yourself to observe changes as they take place.
Efficiency Period
- Just like with effects, the duration of effects also differs from person to person.
- While some people experience an improvement in their condition within a few months, others may need much more time than that.
- You should continue with your medication regularly to see changes.
- Have regular consultations to see if you are making good progress.
Risks
- Finasteride is not a harmful medication.
- There are risks, but they mostly rely on the individual’s carelessness.
- Avoid mishandling or mixing up the medicine to avoid any future complications.
- Do not increase or decrease dosage by yourself; your hair expert knows better.
- Before starting it, always consult a doctor to make sure you are in the right state to consume it or if you require it.
Conclusion
Finasteride can be a transformative medication for those suffering from Male Androgenetic Alopecia (MAA) or male pattern baldness. Male Pattern Baldness is a form of hair loss that affects many men throughout their lives as they age. Finasteride acts as an important medicine that, when consumed according to proper prescriptions. It can inhibit hair loss-causing enzymes in your body and promote hair regrowth.
It would be wise to approach your physician or hair expert immediately as you notice hair loss patterns. This will help the doctor to suggest whether you are ready for the consumption of Finasteride or whether a hair transplant is the only solution left. If the medicine can repair the damage, it’s great news. Make sure to follow the prescription schedule given to you properly. With patience and discipline, you too can embark on the journey of hair re-growth and even succeed at it.
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