Finasteride and Propecia for Hair Loss
Finasteride and Propecia® are prescription medications often used interchangeably, but there is a simple difference. Finasteride is the generic medication, while Propecia® is a brand name of finasteride. These FDA approved prescription non-surgical hair loss treatments can help men with male pattern hair loss hold on to more of the hair they have. Both work by lowering dihydrotestosterone, commonly called DHT, which can gradually shrink genetically sensitive hair follicles and lead to thinning over time.
At Leonard Hair Transplant Associates, Dr. Lopresti may recommend finasteride as part of your hair loss treatment plan based on your type of hair loss, medical history and goals. The idea is simple. If you can help protect the hair you still have today, you may have more to work with tomorrow.
In clinical studies, nine out of 10 men saw results with Propecia®. Eighty-three percent of the time, the treatment works to prevent further hair loss, specifically on the crown and the front and central part of the head. Sixty-six percent of the time, Propecia® also works to help replace hair, aiding regrowth of hair on the crown.
Data from recent studies reported that at the end of five years, there were 277 more hairs per 1-inch circle on the heads of men who took Propecia® as compared to men who took a placebo. Almost 300 more hairs for every 1 inch, is A LOT more hair!
Finasteride is taken once a day and can be taken with or without food. Some patients notice less shedding after approximately three months. Visible improvement usually takes longer and may require six to twelve months. Dr. Lopresti generally recommends giving the medication enough time to determine how well it is working. Continued use is normally needed to maintain the benefits. According to the FDA prescribing information, stopping treatment can lead to a reversal of its effects within approximately 12 months.
Possible side effects include decreased sexual desire, difficulty with erections and changes in ejaculation. These effects were uncommon in clinical trials, but every patient should understand the potential risks before beginning treatment.
Additional side effects have also been reported after the medication became available. Some reports describe sexual or other symptoms continuing after treatment was stopped. Patients should discuss any concerns or changes with their prescribing medical provider.
Finasteride can also lower PSA levels, which may affect the interpretation of prostate screening results. Patients should tell their medical providers that they take finasteride before having a PSA test.
Contact Leonard Hair Transplant Associates
Dr. Lopresti provides personalized hair loss evaluations for men throughout Massachusetts and New England. During your consultation, he will evaluate your hair loss, review your medical history and discuss whether finasteride or brand name Propecia® may help you preserve your existing hair and feel more confident about the future of your hair.