If I stop taking oral medications like finasteride, will hair loss start again?
Should finasteride (Propecia), which is commonly taken to manage hair loss, be taken only for a certain period of time?
Will my hair loss return if I discontinue taking it?
Hair Loss Treatment Effects of Finasteride: A Literature Review
Finasteride is typically prescribed for long-term use, often ranging from 1 to 5 years or even longer.
According to a study by Shapiro J and Kaufman K titled “Use of Finasteride in the treatment of men with androgenetic alopecia (Male Pattern Hair Loss),” the effectiveness of finasteride in preventing hair loss is evident. After one year of treatment, hair loss improvement rates are around 55-60%, while after five years, the effectiveness stabilizes at around 50%.
According to the brochure released by the developer, MERCK, in 2010, the effectiveness of finasteride reaches its peak after one year of use and gradually declines thereafter. If finasteride is abruptly discontinued, hair loss symptoms can resurface within 4-6 months. Therefore, once initiated, consistent use of finasteride for at least a year is advised, and during consumption, the hair loss prevention effects generally remain well-maintained.
Concerns about side effects from long-term use
Finasteride works by mimicking the structure of testosterone, tricking the enzyme 5-alpha reductase into binding to it instead of testosterone. This competitive inhibition process reduces the conversion of testosterone into dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a hormone that contributes to hair loss in men. However, because finasteride directly affects testosterone metabolism, it can lead to potential side effects, most commonly sexual dysfunction. If you experience any side effects while taking finasteride, it’s crucial to consult with your doctor immediately.
