Medically reviewed by Alan Lucks | MD, Alan Lucks MDPC Private Practice - New York on February 10th, 2026.
Finasteride can effectively slow or stop male pattern baldness
Treatment results vary based on individual factors
Most users see noticeable improvements within 6-12 months
Combination treatments often provide best results
Hair loss can be a challenging and emotionally sensitive issue for many men. Finasteride, a prescription medication originally developed to treat prostate conditions, has become a popular solution for male pattern baldness. While individual results can vary, many men have experienced significant improvements in hair density and appearance.
Understanding how prevent hair loss is crucial for anyone experiencing thinning hair. Finasteride works by blocking the conversion of testosterone to dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a hormone responsible for male pattern baldness.
Finasteride targets the root cause of male pattern baldness by inhibiting the enzyme that produces DHT. This hormone shrinks hair follicles and accelerates hair loss. By reducing DHT levels, hair loss treatment options like finasteride can help slow down or even reverse the balding process.
Most men start with a 1mg daily dose of finasteride. The medication is typically taken orally and requires consistent use to maintain results. Many physicians recommend combining finasteride with topical treatments like minoxidil for optimal outcomes.
Patients typically see initial results within 3-6 months, with more significant improvements visible around 12-18 months. Some key observations include:
Slowed hair loss
Increased hair thickness
Potential hair regrowth in thinning areas
Improved overall hair density
While medical treatment options for hair loss are generally safe, finasteride can have side effects. A small percentage of men report sexual dysfunction, breast tenderness, weakness, dizziness, or mood changes.
Treatment |
Success Rate |
Average Cost |
Treatment Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
Finasteride Alone |
65-90% |
$30-$60/month |
Ongoing |
Finasteride + Minoxidil |
80-95% |
$50-$80/month |
Ongoing |
Hair Transplant |
90-100% |
$4,000-$15,000 |
One-time procedure |
Individual results depend on multiple factors, including:
Age
Extent of hair loss
Genetics
Overall health
Consistency of treatment
Most men see initial results within 3-6 months, with significant improvements by 12 months.
Most studies indicate it's safe when monitored by a healthcare professional.
It's typically not recommended for women, especially those who are pregnant or may become pregnant.
Hair loss will likely resume within 6-12 months of discontinuing the medication.
Some supplements may help, but they're generally less effective than prescription treatments.
Hair loss treatment is personal and complex. While finasteride offers promising results for many men, consulting with a healthcare provider is crucial to determine the best approach for your specific situation.
Ready to meet your AI doctor? Get started with Doctronic today.
Hair loss can be a challenging and emotionally sensitive issue for many men. Finasteride, a prescription medication originally developed to treat prostate conditions, has [...]
Read More
