Finasteride 1mg 28 Tablets For Hair Loss

Get to know Finasteride for hair loss 

Finasteride is the active ingredient in Finasteride 1mg tablets, available as a prescription-only treatment for hair loss in males and those assigned male at birth. Often referred to as male pattern baldness (Androgenetic or Androgenic Alopecia), hair loss can affect up to 80% of men, often starting before the age of 21 for 1 in 4 men. 

Finasteride key facts

Taking action when you notice changes in hair thickness or balding can result in more effective treatment results when using Finasteride.

• Can stop hair loss for up to 90% of men who use it

• Noticeable hair loss improvement within 3-6 months

• Around 66% of men experienced visible regrowth

Read more about Finasteride in the Patient Information Leaflet that comes with the medication. 

Our expert clinical team are available to chat about your hair loss treatment options. Call us on 01295 262925 or email help@oxfordop.co.uk. 

The science behind how Finasteride helps combat hair loss 

Finasteride works by blocking an enzyme called 5-alpha-reductase, which normally converts testosterone into dihydrotestosterone (DHT) in the body. DHT is the hormone primarily responsible for male pattern baldness, as it causes hair follicles to shrink over time in men who are genetically susceptible.

Focusing on the follicles

When Finasteride reduces DHT levels in the scalp (typically by about 65-70%) it helps to protect hair follicles from this shrinking process. This protection allows existing hair to grow normally and can even revive follicles that have begun to miniaturise but haven't yet completely shut down.

Good to know

The medication, taken as a daily 1mg oral pill, gets to work immediately. But you’ll need to take it consistently for at least 3-6 months before noticing decreased hair loss and up to a year before seeing any potential regrowth.

Importantly, Finasteride only works while you're taking it. Once discontinued, DHT levels rise again and hair loss typically resumes within 6-12 months.

Am I eligible for Finasteride hair loss treatment? 

Finasteride is a prescription-only hair loss treatment for hereditary hair loss only (male pattern baldness). This means hair loss that isn’t related to stress, other medications, diet, other medical conditions or hormonal changes. If you’re unsure, your doctor or a hair specialist can help determine the cause of your hair loss.

It’s suitable for men and those assigned male at birth, who are over 18.

What does male pattern baldness look like? 

Typically, male pattern baldness begins at the hairline (the temples) and often looks like an M shape; you will notice it receding over time.

Then, you might spot one of the following characteristics of male pattern baldness:

• Hair on the top of the head will thin, eventually to the point where it becomes bald

• Your hair will become shorter and much finer

• The sides will recede further, producing a horseshoe pattern around the head

If you have established that your hair loss is likely to be hereditary, Finasteride could be suitable for you. 

Remember, our expert team will review your completed consultation to make sure Finasteride is the right hair loss treatment for you. If it isn’t, there are other treatment options available and we’ll let you know which might be suitable for you.

Important Information

Recent guidance from the MHRA states that:

• Finasteride is associated with low mood, depression, suicidal thoughts and sexual dysfunction (decreased sex drive, erectile dysfunction and ejaculation disorders).

• Before taking Finasteride, carefully read and keep the Finasteride patient cards and patient information leaflet within your pack.

• Inform your doctor if you have any personal history of depression or suicidal thoughts.

• If you have seriously harmed yourself or feel you are at risk of serious harm, contact emergency services on 999 immediately.

• Stop using Finasteride 1mg immediately if you develop depression or suicidal thoughts and contact your doctor as soon as possible.

• If prescribed Finasteride and you experience decreased sex drive, difficulty having an erection or ejaculation problems you should contact your doctor for medical advice.