Propecia®
More than half of all men and women experience hair loss at some point in their lives. Everyone sheds and re-grows hair on a daily basis. Often hair follicles are affected by a substance called dihydrotestosterone or DHT. When hair sheds during its normal cycle, the DHT is thought to shorten the growth cycle of the hairs, causing them to grow back finer and thinner, this process is called miniaturization. Androgenic alopecia is the most common type of hair loss, often called male pattern baldness and is found in both men and women. It is the most easily treated type of hair loss.
Hair loss is progressive. Propecia® (finasteride) is a daily medication for men only that is taken orally to cease the progression of hair loss. Propecia® works to block the production of DHT thereby interrupting the evolution of hair loss. The results of taking this pill daily have been proven to treat mild to moderate male pattern hair loss on the top and middle front of the head. It has been reported to cease hair loss in 60% of men who take it daily. When taken properly, results can often be seen after 3 months. Generally if results are not seen within one year, more than likely this treatment will not work for you.
Propecia® is only for men and should not be taken by women or children. The medication will only work over the long term if taking it consistently. Propecia® reports side effects are uncommon and do not affect most men. Propecia® is a lifelong medication. If patients stop taking it, any hair that had been gained will be lost within twelve months.
The cost of finesteride per month is approximately $30. |
