Finasteride (Hair Loss)

Finasteride 1 mg is a type II 5-alpha reductase inhibitor used for the treatment of male pattern hair loss (androgenetic alopecia) in men aged 18 to 41. By reducing the conversion of testosterone to dihydrotestosterone (DHT) in the scalp, finasteride slows hair thinning, stabilises hair loss, and can promote regrowth, particularly at the vertex and mid-scalp. Results are gradual and require at least three to six months of daily use to become apparent.

How to Take Finasteride 1 mg

Take one finasteride 1 mg tablet once daily, with or without food. Consistency is important — take it at the same time each day.

How Long Before You See Results

Finasteride works gradually. Most men notice a reduction in hair loss within three to six months, with visible regrowth taking six to twelve months or longer in some cases. Have a doctor assess your progress after twelve months of continuous use. Hair loss resumes within six to twelve months of stopping treatment, so this is a long-term commitment for those who wish to maintain the benefit.

Handling Precautions

Finasteride 1 mg tablets should not be handled by women who are pregnant or planning to become pregnant. Finasteride can be absorbed through the skin and has the potential to cause abnormal development of the genitalia in a male foetus. If a pregnant woman accidentally touches a crushed or broken tablet, wash the area thoroughly with soap and water.

One 1 mg tablet daily. Improvement is typically seen after 3 to 6 months. If no benefit after 12 months, discontinuation should be considered.

Common Side Effects

Sexual side effects are uncommon but are the most frequently reported:

• Decreased libido (reduced sex drive)
• Erectile dysfunction
• Reduced volume of ejaculate
• Breast tenderness or enlargement (gynaecomastia) — rare

Post-Finasteride Syndrome

A small number of men report that sexual side effects (reduced libido, erectile dysfunction, ejaculatory changes) persist after stopping finasteride 1 mg, a collection of symptoms sometimes called post-finasteride syndrome. The medical evidence on this is still being studied. If you notice significant sexual side effects during treatment, speak to your doctor before deciding whether to continue or stop. Any new breast lumps, pain, or nipple discharge should be reported promptly.

Women who are or may become pregnant must not handle crushed or broken tablets, as finasteride can be absorbed through the skin and may harm a male foetus. Sexual side effects usually resolve on stopping treatment, though persistent effects have been reported rarely.

Contraindicated in women, children, and known hypersensitivity to finasteride.