Finasteride for Alopecia: The Ultimate Guide to Using It Correctly

→Finasteride is a commonly prescribed medication to treat androgenic alopecia (hair loss) in men. But do you really know how it works and what to expect when using it? In this guide, we'll answer all your questions about this treatment and how to use it correctly.

How does finasteride work?

→ Finasteride works by blocking the conversion of testosterone into dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a key hormone in hair loss. But why is this so important? DHT causes hair follicles to shrink, resulting in thinner, weaker hair. By reducing DHT levels, finasteride can help slow hair loss and, in some cases, regrow hair.

How should I take it?

→Treatment with finasteride is simple, but it requires commitment. Here are some common questions about its use:

What is the recommended dosage?

→The standard dosage is 1 mg per day. It is important to follow your doctor's instructions and not adjust the dosage without consulting.

When will I see results?

→Results are not immediate. It takes time: improvement in hair density and thickness may begin to be visible after 6 to 12 months of continuous use.

Is it necessary to take it every day?

→Yes, finasteride must be taken daily to see results. If you stop taking it, you may lose the benefits obtained.

What results can I expect?

→After several months of treatment, the changes can be surprising, but not drastic. So, what can you expect?

Improvement in hair thickness:

Hair may become stronger and thicker, giving a more voluminous appearance. Stabilization of density: Although the number of hairs will not increase significantly, the quality of each hair may improve.

What side effects might you experience?

Like any medication, finasteride can have side effects. While most users tolerate it well, it is essential to be aware of the potential risks. Below, we separate the most common side effects from the rarer ones.

Most common (although rare) side effects:

Decreased libido: Some users report a reduction in sexual desire. This effect tends to appear within the first months of treatment and may diminish with continued use. However, in rare cases, it persists even after stopping the medication.

Erectile dysfunction: A small percentage of users have reported difficulty achieving or maintaining an erection. Research suggests this occurs due to the reduction of DHT, which plays a role in sexual function. Most cases resolve either with time or after discontinuing finasteride.

Decreased ejaculation volume: Some men experience a decrease in the amount of semen produced during ejaculation. This does not necessarily affect fertility, but it may be noticeable for some individuals.

Breast tenderness or pain: A small percentage of users may develop mild tenderness, swelling, or discomfort in the breast area. This is due to hormonal changes caused by finasteride, as it slightly affects the balance between androgens and estrogens. If you notice significant changes, such as lumps or persistent pain, consult a doctor immediately.

Mood changes: Some studies have linked finasteride to cases of anxiety, depression, and mood swings. Although this is uncommon, individuals with a history of mental health issues should monitor any psychological changes and seek medical advice if they occur.

Allergic reactions: Although rare, some people may experience symptoms such as skin rashes, itching, or swelling of the face, lips, or throat. Severe allergic reactions (anaphylaxis) are extremely uncommon but require immediate medical attention.

Less common but serious side effects:

Persistent sexual dysfunction (Post-Finasteride Syndrome - PFS): A small subset of users report prolonged sexual, neurological, or psychological symptoms even after stopping the medication. This is still being studied, and while rare, it is something to consider.

Severe breast changes: While mild breast discomfort is possible, in extremely rare cases, finasteride has been linked to male breast cancer. Any unusual breast lumps should be checked by a doctor.

Testicular pain: Some users have reported mild to moderate testicular discomfort, which typically resolves on its own.

What should you do if you experience side effects?: If you notice mild side effects, you may want to continue the treatment while monitoring how your body adjusts. However, if symptoms persist, worsen, or significantly affect your quality of life, consult a healthcare professional to discuss alternatives or adjustments to your treatment.

Is it suitable for everyone?

→Although finasteride is most effective for men, some women also use it, but under strict medical supervision. If you are considering this treatment, it is essential to have a medical evaluation to ensure that it is the best option for you. Remember that the key with finasteride is consistency. Don't expect immediate change, but over time, you will notice improvements in hair quality. Always follow the recommendations of a health professional to ensure that the treatment is tailored to your needs.

Sources:

Kaufman, KD, Olsen, E.A., Whiting, D., Savin, R., DeVillez, R., Bergfeld, W.,… and Roberts, J.L. (1998). Finasteride in the treatment of men with androgenetic alopecia. Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, 39(4), 578-589. https://doi.org/10.1016/S0190-9622(98)70007-6

Rossi, A., Cantisani, C., Melis, L., Iorio, A., Scali, E. and Calvieri, S. (2012). Finasteride 1 mg in the treatment of androgenetic alopecia: long-term (10-year) experience in a single center. Journal of Dermatological Treatment, 23(5), 369-375. https://doi.org/10.3109/09546634.2010.551099

Gupta, A. K., Charrette, A., & Foley, K. A. (2017). The efficacy and safety of finasteride for the treatment of androgenetic alopecia: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 16(9), 817-825. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28885041/

American Academy of Dermatology. (no date). Hair loss: diagnosis and treatment. American Academy of Dermatology Association. https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/hair-loss/treatment

MedlinePlus. (n.d.). Finasteride. U.S. National Library of Medicine. https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a698016.html