Finasteride Experiences

Varied Finasteride Experiences

Finasteride is a prescription medication available under the brand names Propecia and Proscar in the Netherlands. It is also available as a generic drug, which is often cheaper than the branded versions. While Proscar is primarily used for the treatment of an enlarged prostate, Propecia is known as a hair growth treatment for men. Finasteride is not suitable for use by women and children. The following warnings are provided when using this medication:

Contact Warning for Pregnancy. Pregnant women or women who wish to become pregnant should not come into contact with broken or crushed Finasteride tablets. Contact may lead to problems in the development and growth of a fetus.
Prostate Cancer. Finasteride is originally a medication for prostate issues. Finasteride can lower prostate-specific antigen (PSA) levels. If PSA levels rise during use, it may be an indication of prostate cancer.

Different Finasteride Brands

Finasteride, a medication commonly prescribed for male pattern baldness (androgenetic alopecia) and benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), is sold worldwide under various brand names. One of the most well-known brands is Propecia, which is specifically developed for the treatment of hair loss. Propecia contains a standard dosage of 1 mg of finasteride and is popular due to its proven effectiveness in slowing hair loss and promoting regrowth. For patients with BPH, finasteride is often sold under the brand name Proscar, which contains a higher dosage of 5 mg. Both products are produced by Merck & Co.

In addition to Propecia and Proscar, there are numerous generic versions of finasteride available, containing the same active ingredient but offered at a lower price. Some well-known generic brands include Finasteride Accord, Finpecia, and Aindeem. These generic variants are often prescribed due to their affordability and accessibility, without compromising on quality or effectiveness.

In the Netherlands and Europe, generic Finasteride products are often available through pharmacies and are covered by most health insurers, depending on the intended use. In some countries, Finasteride is also combined with other treatments, such as minoxidil, for a more holistic approach to hair loss. Although the various brands contain the same active ingredient, the choice of a specific brand may depend on availability, cost, and personal preference. It is always important to use finasteride under the guidance of a doctor due to possible side effects.

How it Works and Side Effects

Finasteride is a DHT blocker. It slows down the action of the DHT hormone. Dihydrotestosterone influences male hair loss. It accelerates the hair growth process, causing the hair follicles to shrink over time. Finasteride inhibits the DHT hormone, reducing hair loss and improving hair growth on your scalp. The medication has various side effects, such as:

• Reduced sex drive and ejaculation problems
• Erectile dysfunction
• Increased breast size and breast tenderness
• Skin irritations

Men who experience mild side effects typically find that these decrease and disappear within a few weeks. There are also reports of men who experience severe side effects, which do not subside. Severe complications of Finasteride include:

• Swelling of the lips, tongue, throat, and/or face
• Depressive feelings
• Nipple discharge
• Painful breasts and/or lump formation

General Finasteride Experiences

Users of Finasteride for hair loss share reviews and experiences on forums and comparison websites. Results vary. Some men notice a decrease in hair loss relatively soon after starting the medication, while others see little change even after six months. Common remarks include:

• Finasteride is easy to use. You take the tablets daily, preferably at the same time each day.
• Compared to cosmetic treatments for hair loss, Finasteride is relatively inexpensive.
• Hair loss decreases, and hair growth looks better than before.
• Stopping Finasteride use will allow hair growth to continue.
• Even long after stopping, side effects may still occur.

Daily Finasteride Use

To effectively treat and reduce hair loss, you should take one tablet daily. It is important to know that you will not see improvements immediately, within a few days, or even weeks. Normally, it takes three to six months before you notice any development. The hair growth treatment works best for areas with thinning hair and a receding hairline. Its effect is less noticeable in larger areas where hair has completely disappeared. Finasteride not only reduces hair loss but also stimulates hair growth in some users. The hair growth is thicker and stronger. However, Finasteride does not replace the hair that has already fallen out. It prevents further hair loss.

Not Everyone Sees Results

For many users, Finasteride is a relatively successful solution for treating hereditary hair loss. Everyone is different, and people respond in different ways to the same medication. In some cases, Finasteride may not be as effective as initially hoped. The hair growth treatment works best for hair loss with a receding hairline and scattered hair loss. Adult men may use this medication. Before prescribing the medication, a conversation takes place with the doctor to discuss your health. Users have regular check-up appointments, during which the doctor monitors progress. Always report any issues or side effects you experience since starting the medication during these appointments.

Gradual Result Development

Unfortunately, there is no way to speed up the effect of Finasteride. Patience is key. Regardless of your age, weight, or height, you should take Finasteride for hair loss in a daily dose of 1 mg. Use the medication as prescribed and do not increase the dose. Increasing the dose does not affect the results and also increases the risk of side effects, so it is not recommended. Finasteride is also available in 5 mg tablets. This dosage is only intended for men using the medication to treat an enlarged prostate. This hair growth medication is also often combined with other hair growth treatments.

More Effective Than Other Treatment Methods?

When it comes to successfully treating male pattern baldness, Finasteride is an effective method. It is especially beneficial for early stages of hair loss. Other hair growth treatments like Dutasteride and Minoxidil have been scientifically proven. Dutasteride is available in tablet form, while Minoxidil is a foam applied to the scalp daily. Hair growth products purchased at drugstores often have little to no effect and are not proven to be effective.

Hair Growth Treatment or Cosmetic Procedure?

Not everyone wants to take a medication daily for an extended period to prevent hair loss. As an alternative, there are various cosmetic and surgical treatments available to address hereditary baldness. The only treatment method that provides new, permanent hair growth is a hair transplant. When comparing treatments, you'll see that the cost of a hair transplant is much higher than what you pay for Finasteride. On the other hand, the costs for Finasteride recur monthly, whereas a hair transplant is almost always a one-time procedure. This is certainly something to consider when thinking about a treatment method. You can get personal information by making an appointment with a hair transplant specialist. GlobalHair is available by phone or WhatsApp at +31 6 3338 8757.