Finasteride side effects in women and men

The problem of excessive hair loss can affect anyone, regardless of age or sex. Hair is a very important part of appearance, which is why most people cannot accept losing it. When it comes to hair loss, one of the fundamental forms of treatment and limiting the effects of baldness is finasteride. What is it and what results does it deliver?

What is finasteride?

Finasteride is a drug used to treat hair loss, particularly in cases of androgenetic alopecia. It is designed to inhibit the conversion of testosterone into its active form, dihydrotestosterone (DHT).

It is almost five times more potent than the basic form, and it is DHT that is responsible for regulating hair growth in the body. It occurs in both men and women, but finasteride is only used to treat male pattern baldness.

If the body is hypersensitive to dihydrotestosterone, hair follicles begin to shrink and weaken. The result is hair loss and thinning. To answer the question of what finasteride is, we can say that it is an oral medication that reduces the formation of DHT and is used to treat male pattern baldness.

Finasteride efficacy

In around 80% of men, finasteride for alopecia, when used regularly, significantly inhibits hair loss. In addition, finasteride produces effects in the form of new hair growth. The most visible new hair growth occurs in the center of the head. Less spectacular effects are seen on the temples and front of the head..

It should be remembered, however, that to halt the balding process, the medication must be taken continuously over a long period. In general, after about 6 months from the start of treatment, baldness slows visibly and new hair appears.

However, it must be remembered that if the medication is stopped, the problem of excessive hair loss will return. Therefore, the drug must be taken continuously to maintain its efficacy.

Also read about: Dandruff in the hair

Nevertheless, finasteride and its price are not too high. Keep in mind that finasteride is a prescription drug. It is therefore advisable to make regular appointments with a dermatologist to ensure an adequate supply of the drug, and not to interrupt treatment. There are also a number of drugs that can replace finasteride, but their efficacy is not as high.

Side effects of finasteride

Virtually all prescription drugs can cause side effects. This is also the case with finasteride treatment. The main side effects of finasteride are mood changes, temporary fertility problems and the possibility of erectile dysfunction or reduced libido.

Consequently, the dose of the drug is individually adapted to the patient. Side effects are not very troublesome, occurring in around 5% of men as problems with sperm quality, and in around 2% as a temporary reduction in sexual desire.