How Propecia (finasteride) Works – Free online consultation by UK registered Doctors

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Propecia (finasteride) is the only prescription medicine in the UK for male pattern baldness. It is a 5 alpha reductase inhibitor. It is a tan octagonal tablet available in just one strength – Propecia 1mg. It works by blocking the enzyme, Type II 5 alpha-reductase, and in doing so it reduces the level of the hormone in the scalp which shortens the hair growth cycle and allows hairs to revert to a normal growth cycle. This can result in stopping further hair loss and increasing new hair growth in men with male pattern baldness.

  • Propecia Reduces DHT, a key contributor to hair loss, by inhibiting the formation of DHT in your scalp.
  • Decreasing levels of DHT appears to prevent the further shrinking of affected hair follicles.
  • DHT is a substance in the body that can shrink the hair follicle until it no longer produces visible hair. Scientists believe DHT and family history are key factors in hair loss.
  • Propecia blocks the formation of DHT and therefore appears to prevent the development of male pattern baldness.
  • Propecia helps reduce further hair loss and re-grow visible hair.

Continuous use once a day for 3–6 months is required before benefit is seen, and effects are reversed 6–12 months after treatment is discontinued so continuous use is recommended to sustain benefit.

Trials conducted on thousands of men have shown that after 2 years of use two thirds of men showed increased hair growth. 4 out of 5 of men in the trial showed no further hair loss.

The recommended dose is Propecia 1mg one tablet per day.