Managing Male Pattern Baldness with Medications

The very first treatment that hair loss sufferers would usually try to stop hair loss is medication.
 
This is why brand names like Finasteride and Minoxidil are widely popular today. These medical hair loss treatments have been the first beacon of hope for many when it comes to restoring hair volume.

Finasteride

Finasteride is the generic name for Merck’s Proscar and Propecia. This drug was originally developed to treat patients who are suffering from benign prostatic hypertrophy (BPH) or enlarged prostate glands. But, it was later discovered during trials that it also stimulates hair growth as a side effect. This drove the manufacturers to market the drug to treat male pattern baldness.
 
Efforts were rewarded with an FDA approval in December of 1997. And since then, it has earned the reputation of being an effective treatment for male pattern baldness.

How it Works Again Hair Loss?

The success of Finasteride on the battle against hair loss comes from its inhibitory action against 5-alpha-reductase, which is the enzyme that is responsible for converting testosterone to its more potent form, DHT (dihydrotestosterone). Increased DHT levels causes the hair follicles to shrink or miniaturize, then fall off in excessive amounts, and eventually leads to balding.
 
According to WebMD, a one milligram dose of Propecia can lower DHT levels on the scalp by 60% when taken on a daily basis. This halted the progression of hair loss in about 86% of males who have taken the drug during clinical trials. There was a substantial amount of improvement in hair growth among 65% of the study participants.

Drawbacks of Finasteride

The success of Finasteride may be widespread; however, it also comes with a catch. There are reports that the drug causes increased rates in sexual dysfunction. This includes problems like erectile dysfunction and low libido. This is one of the major reasons why some men discontinue the drug despite its therapeutic effects regarding hair loss.

However, some still experience the side effects three months after they stop taking Finasteride. When this happens, it is already considered a “persistent” occurrence.
 
According to Dr. Michael S. Irwig from the Center for Andrology and Division of Endocrinology of George Washington University, “Prescribers of Finasteride and men contemplating its use should be made aware of the potential adverse medication effects.” This was his conclusion from the data he gathered after observing adult males who experienced Finasteride-associated sexual side effects. Today, Finasteride includes this warning on their labels.

Important Reminders When Taking Finasteride

It is important to note that Finasteride or Propecia should be used only by men. Women are advised against this treatment especially among those who may be or who are pregnant. This drug can pose abnormalities in the sex organs of a male baby. Simply coming in contact with a crushed Finasteride drug by hand can be a risk because of the active ingredient. If ever this happens, a pregnant woman should always consult her doctor immediately.