HAIR LOSS
Finasteride
A prescription DHT-lowering medication for men with androgenetic hair loss who want to slow further follicle miniaturization.
What it is
Finasteride is a prescription medication used to treat male-pattern hair loss. It may be taken orally or used in a topical formulation under clinician guidance.
How it works
Finasteride inhibits 5-alpha-reductase, reducing conversion of testosterone to dihydrotestosterone (DHT). Lower scalp DHT can slow miniaturization of susceptible follicles, though results depend on consistent use and individual biology. Potential sexual, mood, and reproductive side effects require a prescriber discussion.
Who it is for
- Men with early to moderate androgenetic hair thinning
- Men seeking medical treatment to help preserve existing hair
- Patients willing to use treatment consistently and discuss risks
Mechanism in depth
Finasteride is a 5-alpha reductase inhibitor. It blocks conversion of testosterone to dihydrotestosterone (DHT), the more potent androgen implicated in male pattern hair loss and benign prostatic enlargement. Lower DHT slows follicle miniaturization at the scalp and shrinks prostate tissue.
What outcomes to expect
Hair loss stabilization typically appears within three to six months. Regrowth, when it occurs, is gradual and continues over twelve to twenty-four months. Discontinuation typically leads to gradual return of the underlying hair loss trajectory.
Individual response varies. GPLX does not guarantee results. Your physician sets expectations based on your health history and lab findings.
Common side effects
The most discussed side effects involve libido, erectile function, mood, and, rarely, persistent post-finasteride syndrome. Most patients tolerate the drug well; however, a subset report sexual or mood effects. Rare reports of gynecomastia and depression exist. Discussion with a physician about the risk and reversibility profile is important before starting.
Monitoring schedule
Baseline PSA (because finasteride roughly halves PSA), symptom review, and mental health check-in. Follow-up at three months and then every six months. PSA is doubled at interpretation while on the drug.
Not appropriate if
Not appropriate if you have hepatic dysfunction, active mood disorder that could be worsened, active fertility efforts, or if pregnancy is possible in a partner without appropriate handling of the drug.
Biomarkers reviewed with this treatment
Your physician reviews these markers before and during therapy. Click any marker for a plain-English explanation of what it measures and why it matters.
This treatment is only available after a physician consultation. Book your $149 intake to see if it is appropriate for you.
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