What Is The Right Finasteride Dosage?

In a time of advancing science and more accessible medical interventions, you are no longer forced to accept the signs of ageing, such as wrinkles and hair loss; you have a choice to do something about it. Of course, if you are happy to embrace your laughter lines as evidence of a life well lived, or if you see male pattern baldness as a symbol of your wisdom, then that is great news for you. If, however, you are not quite ready to see your parents when you look in the mirror, there are several options that will help you to look, and feel, younger. 

Finasteride is one of the most popular treatments for male pattern baldness. Male pattern baldness is not unusual, in fact, one in six men aged between 18 and 29 experience thinning hair, baldness, or receding hairline. 

What is finasteride?

Finasteride is a 5-alpha reductase inhibitor. This means that it stops the process of testosterone being converted to dihydrotestosterone (DHT). DHT can prevent hair growth as well as cause prostate enlargement. By stopping the production of DHT, finasteride 1mg can prevent future hair loss; it can’t, however, reverse existing hair loss. 

How long does finasteride take to work?

As with many medications, if you decide to take finasteride for hair loss, patience is key! You will notice some improvement within 3-6 months, so if you are contemplating seeking treatment it is best to do so sooner rather than later. 

What is the right finasteride dosage?

The dosage for finasteride differs depending on whether you are being treated for hair loss or enlarged prostate. For hair loss, the right finasteride dosage is usually 1mg, once a day; for enlarged prostate, it is usually 5mg. 

Managing side effects

It may be possible to inhibit hair loss with a dosage smaller than 1mg. This could be an option if you want to reduce the potential side effects of the drug, such as loss of libido or inability to ejaculate, but a dose smaller than 1mg may not be as effective. If you are concerned, speak to your prescriber about the right finasteride dose for you.  If you feel depressed or notice any pain, swelling or lumps in your chest, or experience nipple discharge, stop taking the drug and speak to your doctor immediately. 

Missed a dose of finasteride?

If you miss a dose but remember within six hours of your usual time, then you can take it as soon as you do remember. If you remember more than six hours after you were due to take your finasteride, skip that dose and take the next one as normal. 

How long can you take finasteride?

Finasteride may be taken for months, years or even indefinitely. As soon as you stop taking finasteride, your body will start converting testosterone to DHT again, so your hair loss will recommence. 

Buying finasteride online or over the counter

While finasteride is available on the NHS for treatment of an enlarged prostate, it is not available to treat male pattern hair loss. For this, you will need to obtain a private prescription. One of the quickest and easiest ways to do this is via an online pharmacy. Simply add finasteride and the quantity you require to your shopping cart and complete the online consultation. 

One of our qualified prescribers will review your request and either issue a prescription (which is included in the price of the product) or get in touch with you for further information, or to make an alternative suggestion. Your hair loss medication could be on your doorstep within 24 hours.  

References 
NHS, Hair Loss
Health Line, Male Pattern Baldness
EMC, Finasteride Patient Leaflet