A Realistic Look at Finasteride and Minoxidil

If you have pattern hair loss, minoxidil and finasteride are the two treatments with the longest track record behind them. Generic finasteride is a 1 mg tablet taken once a day. It lowers DHT, the hormone that shrinks hair follicles. Minoxidil is applied click here to the scalp and supports thicker hair.

The biggest challenge is patience. Most men need three to six months to see a change, and about a year to know whether it is working. Some extra shedding early on is normal and often a sign the treatment is working.

If you want a clear timeline, see this plain-English explainer walks through the facts.

Before you start: finasteride 1 mg is the dose for hair loss, while 5 mg is licensed for an enlarged prostate. Cutting up 5 mg tablets is not a licensed approach unless your prescriber advises it. Finasteride can lower PSA test results, so tell your doctor if you have that test. Anyone who is or may be pregnant must not handle crushed or broken tablets.

Most men have no side effects, but some do. Some men notice lower sex drive or erection problems, and mood changes should be reported to a doctor promptly.

Since benefits stop when you stop, many men choose to buy generic finasteride online to save money. A valid prescription is required for every order of a prescription medicine. Read more in this finasteride guide.

This article is for general information only. Speak to your doctor or pharmacist before starting any medicine.