Finasteride 1mg is used for the treatment of male pattern hair loss (also known as androgenetic alopecia) in men.

Male pattern hair loss is a common condition thought to be caused by a combination of genetic factors and a particular hormone, called dihydrotestosterone (DHT). DHT contributes to shortening of the growth phase of the hair and to thinning of the hair.

In the scalp, Finasteride 1mg specifically lowers the levels of DHT by blocking an enzyme (Type II 5-alphareductase) that converts testosterone to DHT.

Only men with mild to moderate, but not complete hair loss can expect to benefit from the use of Finasteride 1mg.

In most of the men treated with Finasteride 1 mg for 5 years, the progression of hair loss was temporary slowed, and at least half of these men also had some kind of improved hair growth.

The recommended dose is one tablet each day. The tablet can be taken with or without food.

If you take too many tablets by mistake, talk to your doctor promptly. Finasteride will not work faster or better if you take it more than once a day.

If you forgot to take finasteride, do not take a double dose to make up for a forgotten dose.

It may take three to six months for the full effect to develop. It is important to keep taking finasteride 1mg as long as you are advised.

If you stop taking finasteride, you are likely to lose the hair you have gained within the next 9 to 12 months.

• If you are a woman (because this medicine is for men). It has been shown in clinical trials that Propecia does not work in women with hair loss.

• If you are allergic (hypersensitive) to finasteride or any of the other ingredients of this medicine.

• If you are already taking finasteride or dutasteride used for a prostate problem called benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH).

Stop taking Finasteride and talk to your doctor immediately if you have any of the following symptoms:

• swelling of your lips, face, tongue and throat

• difficulty swallowing

• lumps under your skin (hives) and breathing difficulties.

You should promptly report to your doctor any changes in the breast tissue such as lumps, pain, enlargement of the breast or nipple discharge as these may be signs of a serious condition, such as breast cancer.

Uncommon (up to 1 in 100 people:

• difficulty having an erection

• less desire to have sex

• problems with ejaculation, such as a decrease in the amount of semen released.

• depression

Not known: frequency cannot be estimated from the available data:

• allergic reactions such as rash and itching

• breast swelling or tenderness

• pain in the testicles

• blood in the sperm

• fast heartbeat

• persistent difficulty having an erection after discontinuation of treatment

• persistent decrease in sex drive after discontinuation of treatment

• persistent problems with ejaculation after discontinuation of treatment

• male infertility and/or poor quality of semen

• elevated liver enzymes

• anxiety

Related Treatments for Hair Loss
Frequently asked questions
  • What is finasteride?

    Finasteride 1mg is a prescription oral tablet used to treat male pattern baldness (androgenetic alopecia) in men. Male pattern hair loss is linked to a hormone called dihydrotestosterone (DHT), which shortens the hair growth cycle and causes thinning over time. Finasteride works by blocking the enzyme that converts testosterone into DHT, reducing its levels in the scalp and slowing the progression of hair loss. 

  • What results can I expect?

    Results vary between individuals, but most men who take finasteride consistently will see a slowing of hair loss. At least half of men treated over five years also experience some degree of regrowth. It typically takes three to six months of daily use before the full effect becomes noticeable, so it's important to keep taking the tablets as advised. If you stop taking finasteride, any hair gained is likely to be lost within nine to twelve months.

  • How do I get a finasteride online prescription?

    The process is simple and takes just a few minutes. Answer a few questions about your health and hair loss history, and a UK-registered clinician will review your case. If finasteride is right for you, your prescription is approved and your medication sent out the same day - straight to your door in plain, discreet packaging, with free UK delivery included. Ready to order finasteride online? Get started today.

    Looking for something else? Browse our full range of hair loss treatments or compare with Propecia tablets.

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