Finasteride – What It Is and Why It Matters

When working with Finasteride, a 5‑alpha‑reductase inhibitor that lowers dihydrotestosterone (DHT) levels. Also known as Propecia or Proscar, it is prescribed to treat two common conditions that share the same hormonal driver. The first is male pattern hair loss, clinically called androgenic alopecia, where excess DHT shrinks hair follicles and leads to thinning. The second is benign prostatic hyperplasia, an enlarged prostate that can cause urinary difficulty. In short, Finasteride works by blocking the enzyme that converts testosterone into DHT, which in turn reduces the hormone’s harmful effects on both scalp and prostate tissue. This simple biochemical trick makes it a go‑to option for men looking to keep their hair and improve urinary flow without surgery.

Key Topics Covered in This Section

Understanding how DHT, the potent androgen linked to hair follicle miniaturization and prostate growth drives the two conditions is essential. Researchers have shown that cutting DHT production by about 70 % can halt hair loss progression and shrink prostate volume over months. That’s why clinicians often start patients on a low dose for hair loss (1 mg daily) and a higher dose for prostate health (5 mg daily). Side‑effects are usually mild – reduced libido, slight erectile changes, or a temporary increase in breast tenderness – but they resolve when the dose is adjusted or the drug is stopped. Men with a history of prostate cancer should discuss risks, as long‑term DHT suppression may influence tumor growth patterns. Using finasteride responsibly means regular monitoring of PSA levels, hormone panels, and discussing any mood changes with a physician, because a small subset reports depressive symptoms.

Below you’ll find a curated collection of articles that dive deeper into each angle: dosage guidelines, what to expect during the first weeks, how to manage side‑effects, and real‑world patient stories. Whether you’re curious about hair regrowth, need help with an enlarged prostate, or simply want a clear answer to a specific question, the posts below give practical, evidence‑based information you can act on right away.