FINASTERIDE

Finasteride (Propecia) is an approved, prescription only medication to help treat hair loss, taken as one pill each day. Research shows that baldness is caused by hair follicles being overly sensitive to the hormone Dihydrotestosterone (DHT). With too much DHT present, the follicle reacts badly and the growth cycle becomes shorter and the hair becomes thinner. Finasteride slows the breakdown of testosterone into dihydrotestosterone (DHT) to a stop to male pattern hair loss, which in turns prevents hair from falling out.

 

The medication has been used for over 20 years at five times the dosage (in the form of Proscar) to help treat men with Benign Prostate Hyperplasia (BPH). Subsequent research led to the development of a lower dosage form of the drug which was suitable for the treatment of genetic hair loss. A five-year study of the drug found that 70 per cent of men taking Propecia on a daily basis experienced hair re-growth, while many more had stopped losing their hair.

 

Another recent 10-year study of 118 men who took the drug daily for 10 years found that 86% continued to benefit – showing increased or stable rates of hair growth – over the entire length of the study. That means in 10 years only 14% of participants experienced any further hair loss.

 

In clinical studies, Finasteride, like Minoxidil, was shown to work on both the crown area and the hairline, but is most successful in the crown area.

 

As with any pharmaceutical product or medication, it is essential that anyone wishing to use Finasteride ensures they fit the necessary medical requirements, in order for this hair loss treatment to be prescribed. 
 

The London Hair Loss Clinic will undertake a microscopic examination of your hair and scalp, combined with a medical history check to determine your suitability to Finasteride. Our aim is to make sure your hair can grow normally while the follicles remain unaffected.

 

Our advice is always based exclusively on evidence-based medicine, from scientific articles published on peer reviewed journals of plastic surgery, dermatology and regenerative medicine.

 

Why choose Finasteride?

This tablet is the most effective medicine for strengthening existing hair and slowing further hair loss. Finasteride requires you to continue treatment to maintain its effect, respectively, the drug continues to work well as you get older and is well tolerated by the body. There have been no adverse effects of taking the medication for a long period of time.
Many patients choose to take a course of Finasteride before having hair transplant surgery, and continue with it afterwards.

 

What can Finasteride achieve?

 

• Substantial regrowth of hair

• Effective treatment for men with Androgenetic Alopecia (AGA)

• Significant reduces DHT levels

• Stabilises further hair loss

• Hair can grow normally while the follicles remain unaffected.

 

What are the alternatives to Finasteride?
 

The London Hair Loss Clinic offers a number of effective alternatives to Finasteride. Find out more about LHLC’s non-surgical alternatives.

 

Before your Finasteride treatment

 

Dr Stefano Cotrufo always invites his patients for at least two consultations before any procedure to make sure everything is clear. The targets are agreed in writing and patients are fully aware of the possible risks and complications associated with Finasteride.

 

During your consultation, you will:

 

• Be able to discuss your circumstances

• Undergo a microscopic examination of your hair and scalp combined with a medical history check

• Undergo a health evaluation to define the cause of the hair loss and to work with you to develop a treatment plan

• Be given time to ask advice and pose questions to Dr Cotrufo

• Discuss the options that are open to you, including costs and timescales

• Ask about benefits, alternatives and risks to Finasteride

• Learn more about the Finasteride treatment

 

 

The Finasteride prescription

Finasteride is usually prescribed for men with mild to moderate levels of loss with signs of pattern hair loss such as a thinning crown or a receding hairline. Our hair loss specialist will advise on how the drug should be taken, when it should not be taken, and the potential side effects, beforehand. Our aim is to make sure you are ully informed and comfortable with the treatment before taking it.

​

After your Finasteride prescription

Finasteride is that it is only effective for as long as it is taken (a common challenge with non-surgical treatments for hair loss). Any hair gained or maintained during treatment will be lost within 6 to 12 months after ending the treatment. Our specialist, Dr Cotrufo will answer any questions or concerns you may have after your final appointment.  

​
Do you have any questions about Finasteride?
 

Feel free to contact us if you would like to discuss the scientific evidence for the efficacy of Finasteride, we would be happy to answer any questions you have. Please call the London Hair Loss Clinic today on 020 7666 3147.