What is Finasteride?

Finasteride, sold under the brand name Propecia and Proscar, belongs to the 5-alpha-reductase inhibitor group of medications. 5-alpha reductase inhibitors or DHT blockers are a class of medications with anti-androgenic effects. Finasteride was initially used for the treatment of benign prostatic hyperplasia. In course of time, it was approved for the treatment of hair loss in males.

What is Finasteride used for?

It is primarily used in the treatment of male pattern hair loss in men. Also referred to as androgenetic alopecia, it is a form of hair loss in which the thinning begins above the temples and in course of time proceeds to the crown of the head resulting in complete baldness. It has been proven to be better than other medications for reducing hair loss. Apart from this, it is also used off-label in the treatment of enlarged prostate conditions.

How does Finasteride work?

It works by inhibiting the conversion of testosterone to dihydrotestosterone (DHT) – a hormone responsible for hair loss in men. Its regular use results in a significant decrease in DHT hormone levels. This leads to a decrease in the telogen phase (shedding phase) of hair growth with the promotion of the anagen phase (growth phase) of hair growth.

How long does it take for Finasteride to work?

It does not work immediately after use. It takes 3-4 months for the medication to start showing improved results and around a year for significant results to be visible. The time taken to observe the results is not the same in each person. Factors like the intensity of hair loss in the patient and the usage efficiency of the medication decide the time taken for the drug to work. People with less hair loss and efficient use of Finasteride notice better results than others.

Does Finasteride regrow hair?

It does regrow hair but to a variable extent. In a study aimed at demonstrating the efficiency of the medication, 80% of men taking Finasteride preserved their original hair count while 64% experienced variable hair growth within 2 years of use. The regrowth of hair in Finasteride is better when used during the early balding period when there is comparatively less thinning and balding.

What is Finasteride dosage for hair loss?

Finasteride 5mg and 1mg strengths are available. Finasteride 1mg is used for the treatment of pattern balding. The 1mg tablet is recommended once daily for successful results in adults. Its use is not recommended in children. Additionally, on missing a dose, it is recommended to skip the dose and start it on its next scheduled period. It is not recommended to overuse the medication to make up for the missed dose.

How to buy Finasteride in Australia?

Finasteride in Australia is available in both brand and generic versions. The brand medication of Finasteride, Propecia is a prescription medication and not available over the counter. You will need the prescription of a medical practitioner to procure the medications and its subsequent refills from a registered pharmacy. You can even obtain them from a physician’s clinic or can buy generic Finasteride online in Australia.

Are Finasteride and Minoxidil the same?

It is a DHT blocker available in oral forms. It is used in the treatment of male pattern baldness. It works by inhibiting the hormone responsible for hair thinning and balding factors. Minoxidil on the other hand is a vasodilator. It works by dilating the blood vessels that in turn facilitates the blood flow to hair follicles and in turn the oxygen and nutrient content. The end result is increased hair growth.

What are the things to remember while buying Finasteride online?

It is available online in generic versions which are similar in all aspects to brand versions apart from their names. Generic Finasteride is available in different names and doses. It is important to look at the strength and active ingredients of medication before making the purchase. Additionally, you will need to check the registration and authenticity of the online portal to ensure getting a genuine product.

What are the things to remember before and after using Finasteride?

Before using, it is important that you swallow the tablet whole instead of chewing or breaking it. You will also need to take it at regular intervals to ensure satisfactory results. After using it, secure the lid of the bottle tightly and store in a cool and dry place away from direct sunlight. Ingesting the tablet may prove hazardous to children and pets. It is important to keep it away from their reach as well.

What are the long-term side effects of Finasteride?

The reproductive long-term side-effects associated with Finasteride use are – reduced sperm count, reduced sex drive, ejaculation disorder, and erectile dysfunction

Other less common long-term complications are – increased risk of male breast cancer, high risk of high-grade prostate cancer, depression, rhinitis, and inflammation of blood vessels cutaneously.

What are the contraindications of Finasteride?

It should not be used in people below 18 years of age as its safety has not been proven in that age group. It should not be used in people with hypersensitivity reactions or those allergic to the ingredients of the medications. Allergic reactions can range from hives, skin rashes to more serious problems like swelling of the tongue and face with breathing difficulties. It should also be avoided in patients with compromised renal functions or used with utmost caution in them.

Does Finasteride have any drug interactions?

With Rifampin

The metabolism of either of these medications can be affected by their concomitant use and this should be avoided.

With Acebutolol

Acebutolol is an antihypertensive medication by nature. Using it with Finasteride can decrease the antihypertensive effects that may be life-threatening for the patient.

With Erythromycin

Combining the two results in a decrease in the metabolism of Finasteride. This increases the risk of side effects and overdosing effects as well.

With Aceclofenac

Concomitantly use of Finasteride with Aceclofenac can increase the risk or severity of hypertension and should be avoided as such.

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