Overview
What is it?
Oral finasteride 1 mg is a medication approved by the FDA for the treatment of male androgenetic alopecia (AGA), commonly known as male pattern baldness. It is not naturally occurring but is a synthetic drug designed to combat hair loss by targeting the underlying hormonal causes.
How does it work?
Oral finasteride 1 mg works by inhibiting the enzyme 5-alpha reductase, which converts testosterone into dihydrotestosterone (DHT). DHT is a hormone that contributes to hair follicle shrinkage and eventual hair loss in individuals with a genetic predisposition. By reducing DHT levels, finasteride helps to slow down hair loss and, in some cases, promote hair regrowth .
What are the benefits?
The primary benefit of oral finasteride 1 mg is its ability to effectively slow down or halt hair loss in men with androgenetic alopecia. It has been shown to improve hair density and maintain a positive response over many years. Additionally, it is a convenient once-daily oral treatment, making it easy to incorporate into a daily routine .
Effectiveness
What does the research say?
Research has consistently shown that oral finasteride 1 mg is effective in treating male pattern hair loss. Clinical studies have demonstrated that it can significantly reduce hair loss and improve hair growth in men with AGA. It is one of the few FDA-approved treatments for this condition, and its efficacy has been supported by numerous clinical trials and long-term studies .
Side Effects
Sexual dysfunction
Sexual dysfunction, including reduced sexual desire and difficulty achieving orgasm, has been reported in some men taking finasteride .
Depression and anxiety
Some studies have reported an increase in depression, anxiety, and even suicidal ideation in a subset of men using finasteride .
Decreased libido
Decreased libido, or reduced sexual desire, is one of the more common side effects associated with finasteride use .
Erectile dysfunction
Erectile dysfunction, or difficulty maintaining an erection, has been reported in some men taking finasteride .
Post-finasteride syndrome (PFS)
Post-finasteride syndrome (PFS) is a rare but serious condition where men experience persistent sexual, neurological, and physical side effects even after discontinuing the medication. These symptoms may include sexual dysfunction, depression, and cognitive issues .
Evidence
Clinical Studies & Trials
[1] Comparison of oral minoxidil, finasteride, and dutasteride for treating androgenetic alopecia
This review compares the effectiveness of oral minoxidil, finasteride, and dutasteride for treating androgenetic alopecia (AGA). Finasteride 1 mg/day is FDA-approved for male AGA, while dutasteride and minoxidil are used off-label.
View study[2] Finasteride for hair loss: a review
This review discusses the use of finasteride 1 mg/day for treating androgen-dependent conditions such as male androgenetic alopecia (AGA).
View study[3] Androgenetic alopecia: a review
This paper reviews recent advances in understanding the pathophysiology and molecular mechanisms of androgenetic alopecia, commonly known as male pattern baldness.
View study[4] Post-finasteride syndrome: a surmountable challenge for clinicians
This review discusses post-finasteride syndrome (PFS), a condition where men experience persistent sexual, neurological, and physical side effects after discontinuing finasteride. The paper evaluates the evidence for PFS and its potential causes.
View study[5] Topical ketoconazole for the treatment of androgenetic alopecia: A systematic review
This systematic review evaluates the efficacy of topical ketoconazole in treating androgenetic alopecia (AGA), particularly for patients who do not respond to first-line treatments like finasteride or minoxidil.
View study[6] Dutasteride in Androgenetic Alopecia: An Update
This review discusses the use of dutasteride in treating androgenetic alopecia and compares its efficacy with finasteride. Dutasteride inhibits both type-1 and type-2 5-α-reductase enzymes.
View study[7] The effectiveness of treatments for androgenetic alopecia: A systematic review and meta-analysis
This meta-analysis evaluates the effectiveness of various treatments for androgenetic alopecia, including finasteride, minoxidil, and low-level laser therapy.
View study[8] What's New in Therapy for Male Androgenetic Alopecia?
This review discusses the latest treatments for male androgenetic alopecia, including oral finasteride, dutasteride, and topical finasteride. It also covers emerging therapies and their efficacy.
View study[9] Status of research on the development and regeneration of hair follicles
This review explores the mechanisms of hair follicle development and regeneration, including the role of low-level laser therapy (LLLT) in promoting hair growth.
View study[10] Pediatric androgenetic alopecia: an updated review
This review discusses the diagnosis and treatment of pediatric androgenetic alopecia, including the potential use of topical minoxidil and finasteride in children and adolescents.
View study[11] Management of androgenic alopecia: a systematic review of the literature
This systematic review evaluates the efficacy of various treatments for androgenic alopecia, including oral and topical therapies, as well as procedural options like platelet-rich plasma and hair transplantation.
View study[12] Topical finasteride for male and female pattern hair loss: Is it a safe and effective alternative?
This review evaluates the safety and efficacy of topical finasteride as an alternative to oral finasteride for treating male and female pattern hair loss.
View study