Finasteride can treat patients suffering from benign prostate hyperplasia (BPH) and male pattern hair loss, often referred to as androgenetic alopecia. An overly large prostate causes BPH. People who suffer from BPH generally have urinary problems, a decrease in urine, anxiety when urinating, and the requirement to get up late at night to go to the bathroom.
Finasteride makes these symptoms less severe and decreases the possibility that prostate surgery is needed. One can take it on its own or with other medications, such as Alpha-blockers (doxazosin, Cardura(r)) to treat BPH. For men who have losing hair, finasteride may increase the number of hairs on the scalp but does not alter the quantity of hair on the body.
Finasteride inhibits the activity of an enzyme known as 5-alpha-reductase. This enzyme converts testosterone into another hormone that expands the prostate or causes hair loss in males. It can increase testosterone levels within the body, which reduces prostate size and also increases growing hair on the scalp. The effect of finasteride on the scalp and prostate will only last for the duration of the medication is administered. After stopping, the prostate will begin to grow, and hair loss will occur.
The medication is only available upon prescription by your doctor.