Finasteride was initially marketed to treat prostate conditions under
name Proscar in 5mg pills. It was known to inhibit formation of DHT, a major contributor to both prostate cancer and male pattern hair loss.Subsequent research showed that a 1mg daily dose of same drug was sufficient to control hair loss for 83% of men after two years of treatment. Since 1998 this version has been marketed under brand name Propecia and it remains only prescription drug approved by FDA specifically to treat hair loss. This approval extends only to men's hair loss because of dangers finasteride presents to unborn male fetuses. Women of child bearing age should therefore consult with their physician before considering use of this drug.
The main purpose of Propecia is to halt hair loss and maintain what hair coverage is left. It is therefore popular with younger men who want to control hair loss at an early stage. Men of all ages use it in combination with minoxidil to achieve a hair loss strategy that both halts hair loss and encourages new growth.
Propecia works by interfering with process of androgenetic hair loss which usually follows this process:
