Finasteride
January 1999
in “Drugs”
TLDR Finasteride effectively treats baldness but may cause sexual side effects.
Finasteride is a drug used to treat male pattern baldness by blocking the conversion of testosterone to dihydrotestosterone. It has been proven effective in large studies, promoting hair growth and reducing hair loss. However, it may cause side effects such as decreased libido and erectile dysfunction. Pregnant women should avoid taking finasteride due to the risk of hypospadias in male fetuses. Finasteride has minimal effects on semen production, prostate volume, lipid or bone metabolism, testosterone or estradiol levels in healthy men aged ≤41 years. It is safe and effective, with sexual disorders being the most common side effect. Its recommended dosage is 1 mg/day.
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Cited in this study
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research Finasteride
Finasteride effectively treats baldness but may cause sexual side effects.