Finasteride is used for hair loss treatment because it reduces the activity of the enzyme 5 alpha reductase which converts testosterone to DHT (dihydrotestosterone).
DHT affects the hair follicles by shortening their growth cycle and causing them to shrink and produce thinner, shorter hairs and this eventually leads to hair loss.
Decreasing DHT levels in the scalp therefore treats hair loss known as AGA (androgenetic alopecia or androgenic alopecia). This type of alopecia has two forms – male pattern hair loss in men and female pattern hair loss in women.
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Finasteride For Hair Loss Treatment
Finasteride tablets are used for hair loss treatment at a dose of 1mg.
Topical Finasteride solutions are applied on the scalp for hair loss treatment.
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Finasteride Side Effects
Finasteride is only used for hair loss treatment in men because it is not licensed for use by women and those assigned female at birth for safety reasons.
Infact, Finasteride should not be touched by pregnant women because it can cause birth defects in male fetuses.
Consequently, Finasteride can only be prescribed to men and those assigned male at birth (genetic males).
However, Finasteride should not be used by a man if his female partner is pregnant or if they are trying to get a baby in the next 12 weeks.
When used by men, Finasteride can cause sexual dysfunction like decreased libido and erectile dysfunction and this may persist even after treatment is stopped.
Finasteride can also cause depression and suicidal ideation (thoughts about suicide).
Finasteride can also cause enlarged breast tissue in men (gynecomastia or man boobs). In some rare cases, it has caused breast cancer in men.
Finasteride can also affect the results of the PSA test which is used in the management of prostate cancer or an enlarged prostate (BPH).
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FAQ
How Risky Is Taking Finasteride?
Finasteride is generally safe although it can cause the above mentioned side effects.
Who Cannot Take Finasteride?
Women and children should not take Finasteride.
Men with liver disease, high blood pressure, heart disease, cardiac arrhythmia (abnormal heart rhythm) should not take Finasteride.
How Long Should A Man Take Finasteride?
A man should take Finasteride as long as he wants to keep his hair.
Can I Buy Finasteride Over The Counter?
No, you cannot buy Finasteride over the counter because it is a prescription medication.
What Is The Price For Finasteride 1mg Tablets In Kenya?
The price for Finasteride 1mg tablets ranges from Ksh 3700 to 15000.
Share with us in the comment section your views on Finasteride for hair loss treatment.
