Patient Information Leaflet: Finasteride 1mg Tablets
Read all of this leaflet carefully before you start taking this medicine.
Keep this leaflet. You may need to read it again.
If you have any further questions, ask your doctor, pharmacist, or trichology prescriber.
This medicine has been prescribed for you. Do not pass it on to others as it may harm them, even if their symptoms are the same as yours.
MHRA LICENSED (YES) | FDA APPROVED (YES) | OFF LABEL USE (NO) | DEMONSTRATED (YES)
AVERAGE COST PER DAY USE
What is Finasteride 1mg and What is it Used For?
Finasteride 1mg tablets are used to treat male pattern hair loss (androgenetic alopecia). It is a prescription-only medicine specifically designed for men.
Male pattern hair loss is a common condition caused by an increase in a hormone called dihydrotestosterone (DHT). Finasteride helps to reduce hair loss and improve hair regrowth in the scalp.
How Does Finasteride Work for Hair Loss?
Finasteride works by blocking the action of an enzyme called 5-alpha-reductase, which converts testosterone into DHT. By lowering the levels of DHT in the scalp, Finasteride:
Slows down hair loss: Reduces hair thinning and prevents further balding.
Promotes hair regrowth: Encourages the regrowth of hair on the crown and mid-scalp.
Finasteride 1mg is most effective in treating early-stage hair loss and should be taken for at least 3 to 6 months before visible results are noticed. Continued use is required to maintain the benefits.
How to Take Finasteride 1mg
Take one tablet (1mg) daily, with or without food, at around the same time each day.
Do not take more than the recommended dose.
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is close to the time of your next dose, skip the missed dose. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.
It is important to take Finasteride every day as prescribed for it to be effective.
Note: Finasteride is not suitable for women or children. Pregnant women should avoid handling crushed or broken tablets as Finasteride can cause birth defects.
How Effective is Finasteride?
Clinical studies have shown that Finasteride 1mg is effective in slowing hair loss and promoting hair regrowth in men with male pattern baldness:
88% of men saw no further hair loss after using Finasteride for 12 months.
66% of men experienced noticeable hair regrowth over the same period.
Visible improvement can take 3 to 6 months, and maximum results are typically seen after 12 months of continuous use. If treatment is stopped, hair loss may resume within 9 to 12 months.
Possible Side Effects
Like all medications, Finasteride can cause side effects, although not everyone will experience them. The most commonly reported side effects include:
Common Side Effects (affecting 1 in 100 people):
Reduced libido (decreased interest in sex)
Difficulty in achieving or maintaining an erection (erectile dysfunction)
Decrease in semen volume
Rare Side Effects (affecting fewer than 1 in 1,000 people):
Breast tenderness or enlargement
Testicular pain
Depression or mood changes
Allergic reactions (rash, itching, swelling of the lips or face)
If any of these side effects become severe or persist, or if you notice any other side effects not listed here, contact your doctor or trichology prescriber immediately.
Long-term Effects:
In rare cases, some men report persistent sexual side effects even after stopping the medication. Consult your healthcare provider if you are concerned about this.
Important Considerations
Regular monitoring: Your doctor may schedule follow-up appointments to assess your progress and adjust the treatment as necessary.
Pregnancy warning: Women who are or may become pregnant should not handle crushed or broken Finasteride tablets due to the risk of harm to the unborn baby.
Missed dose: If you miss a dose, do not double the dose next time. Continue with the regular schedule.
Scientific References
Kaufman KD, et al. Finasteride in the treatment of men with androgenetic alopecia. Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology. 1998;39(4):578-589.
Olsen EA, et al. Finasteride 1mg in the treatment of male pattern hair loss: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study. Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology. 2002;47(3):377-385.
Rossi A, et al. Finasteride, 1 mg oral administration in patients with androgenetic alopecia: an update. Dermatologic Therapy. 2019;32(2)
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Need More Information?
If you have any questions or concerns about Finasteride, please contact your healthcare provider or expert trichology prescriber.
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