Finasteride Research Guide

Full name: Finasteride (Propecia/Proscar)

The first-line FDA-approved treatment for male pattern hair loss. Selectively inhibits type II 5-alpha reductase, reducing scalp DHT levels by ~60-70% to slow or reverse follicular miniaturization.

How Finasteride Works

Selectively inhibits type II 5-alpha reductase (predominant in hair follicles), reducing conversion of testosterone to dihydrotestosterone. Serum DHT decreases ~70%, scalp DHT ~40%, allowing follicle recovery.

Dosing Protocol

• Typical dose: 1 mg (hair) or 5 mg (prostate)
• Frequency: Daily
• Duration: 12+ months for full assessment
• Route: Oral tablet

Reported Benefits

• Halts hair loss progression (90% of men)
• Regrows hair (65% of men)
• Well-studied long-term safety
• FDA-approved
• Available generic
• Topical option available

Potential Side Effects

• Decreased libido (2-3%)
• Erectile dysfunction (1-2%)
• Decreased ejaculate volume
• Gynecomastia (rare)
• Depression (rare)

Research Citations

1. Finasteride 10-year follow-up (2019) - 10-year data showed 86% of treated men maintained or improved hair counts, with only 14% showing continued loss.
2. Topical vs oral finasteride (2022) - Topical finasteride 0.25% achieved equivalent hair counts to oral 1mg with 50% less systemic DHT suppression, reducing side effect risk.

Related Hair Growth Compounds

• Dutasteride - Full Profile
• RU-58841 - Full Profile
• Minoxidil - Full Profile
• GHK-Cu Topical - Full Profile
• TB-4 Topical (Hair) - Full Profile
• AHK-Cu - Full Profile

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