Finasteride: How It Works, When to Use It, and What to Expect

Finasteride is a pill that blocks the hormone DHT. DHT is the main cause of male‑pattern baldness and can also make an enlarged prostate worse. By lowering DHT levels, finasteride helps keep hair on the scalp and shrinks the prostate a bit.

Most people start with a 1 mg dose for hair loss and a 5 mg dose if they need it for benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). The drug is taken once a day, with or without food. It takes about three months to notice a change in hair shedding, and up to a year for visible regrowth.

When to Take Finasteride

If you’re in your 20s or 30s and see a widening hair‑line or thinning crown, talk to a doctor about a 1 mg daily pill. It works best when hair follicles are still alive but shrinking. For men over 50 with an enlarged prostate causing frequent urination, the 5 mg dose may be prescribed.

Don’t start finasteride if you’re pregnant, planning to get pregnant, or have a known allergy to the drug. Women generally avoid it because it can cause birth defects. If you have a liver condition, your doctor might check liver enzymes before you begin.

Common Side Effects and Safety Tips

The most reported side effects are reduced libido, erectile issues, and a small amount of breast tenderness. These symptoms often fade after a few weeks, but if they persist, call your doctor. Some users notice a slight increase in breast tissue; this is rare but worth monitoring.

Finasteride can affect PSA (prostate‑specific antigen) test results, making them look lower than they actually are. Let any doctor ordering a PSA test know you’re on finasteride, so they can interpret the numbers correctly.

To keep your treatment safe, never share your pills with anyone else, and store them at room temperature away from moisture. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember unless it’s almost time for the next one—then skip the missed one.

Buying finasteride online can be tempting, but only use licensed pharmacies that require a prescription. Look for a visible address, a pharmacist’s name, and a secure checkout. If a site offers the drug without a prescription or at a price that feels too good to be true, it’s probably a counterfeit.

When you get your medication, check the bottle for the right dosage, expiration date, and batch number. If anything looks off, contact the pharmacy right away. Keeping a simple diary of any side effects can help your doctor adjust the dose if needed.

In short, finasteride is a proven option for hair loss and prostate issues when used correctly. Talk to a healthcare professional, follow the dosage guidelines, and stay alert for any changes in how you feel. With the right approach, you can manage hair thinning or prostate symptoms without a lot of hassle.