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Pre and post-menopausal people can also experience hair loss. Some studies indicate that some cisgender women did have improvement with a 2.5 mg daily dose of finasteride. The dose was well-tolerated, too, with few side effects. It should not be taken by those who are pregnant or breastfeeding. 

Does It Work?

In one study, 65 percent of cisgender women did see significant improvement in hair loss reduction with this drug. They did require a higher dose to see benefits, though. Cisgender men typically take a 1 mg dose, but cisgender women need at least 2.5 mg to see the same success. 

Alternatives

There are limited treatments available for cisgender women with female pattern hair loss. The only FDA-approved treatment is topical minoxidil. 

FAQ

Can females use finasteride?

Cisgender women can use finasteride if they are not pregnant or nursing. 

Can women use finasteride for hair growth?

It is not FDA-approved for women, but clinical trials are promising. 

What happens if a woman takes Propecia?

While it may help control hair loss, it comes with some of the same side effects cisgender men experience, such as increased breast size and decreased libido. 

What is the best treatment for female hair loss?

Topical minoxidil works in 81 percent of cisgender women who try it.

Disclaimer: this article does not constitute or replace medical advice. If you have an emergency or a serious medical question, please contact a medical professional or call 911 immediately. To see our full medical disclaimer, visit our Terms of Use page.


What is Finasteride?

Finasteride is a 5-alpha-reductase inhibitor sold under the brand names Proscar and Propecia.

What is Finasteride Used For?

It is used for the treatment of enlarged benign prostate hyperplasia (enlarged prostate) when offered under the brand name Proscar. For benign prostate hyperplasia, the goal is to reduce symptoms associated with the condition, such as difficulty urinating. It takes six or more months to see improvement.

Propecia is for the treatment of male pattern hair loss.

How Does Finasteride Work?

It works by decreasing the production of the hormone dihydrotestosterone (DHT) in the body. DHT can trigger the enlargement of the prostate and even contribute to hair loss. Reduction of this hormone can therefore prevent prostate enlargement as well as decrease hair loss. 

How Long Does it Take for Finasteride to Work?

How long it takes to work depends on the form of the drug taken. For hair growth, it can take three to four months before the medication begins to affect. It will be six to nine months before there is significant hair regrowth.

For benign prostate hyperplasia, it takes six or more months to see improvement in relevant symptoms.

Do Not Use Finasteride If:

There are several situations where this medication may not be the right choice for you. According to the U.S National Library of Medicine, the following should not use finasteride:

  • Those who are pregnant or breastfeeding
  • Cisgender men who have had breast cancer
  • Anyone experiencing suicidal thoughts
  • Anyone with liver problems
  • Those with high-grade prostate cancer
  • People with a known allergy to 5-alpha reductase inhibitors

Please note that this list may not be complete, and there may be other situations where finasteride use is not advisable.

Disclaimer: this article does not constitute or replace medical advice. If you have an emergency or a serious medical question, please contact a medical professional or call 911 immediately. To see our full medical disclaimer, visit our Terms of Use page.


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