Does finasteride have side effects?

How does finasteride work?

Finasteride inhibits the enzyme 5-alpha reductase, which is responsible for converting testosterone to dihydrotestosterone (DHT). As a result, your body cannot convert, or very limited, testosterone into DHT. DHT plays an important role in male hereditary baldness, officially called androgenic alopecia. DHT shrinks the hair follicles, causing hair loss. By lowering DHT levels, finasteride can stop hair loss and, in most cases, promote new hair growth. New hair growth mainly occurs when your hair follicles are already affected by DHT. Finasteride allows these affected hair follicles to recover over time, allowing new healthy hair to grow.

Out scientific research It was found that after just 24 weeks of using 1 mg finasteride per day, the total number of hair follicles improved significantly compared to a placebo group. From other research it appears that finasteride causes hair loss completely stops with almost all users. In addition, the same research found that 66% of the finasteride users had significantly improved hair growth (number of hair) after two years of consistent use.

What are the possible side effects of finasteride?

Although finasteride is highly effective against hair loss Like all medications, it also has possible side effects. Although rare, it is good to be aware of this. If you have any additional questions, you can also always chat or, if you wish, video call one of our doctors after completing your intake at Fellos. Our doctors are always available to answer your questions.

Sexual dysfunction: 1- 2% of users experience either a decreased libido or erectile dysfunction or a lower sperm volume. Scientific research shows that these side effects did not only disappear in users who stopped taking finasteride. But also among the group that continued to use finasteride. The percentage of users with these side effects drops to less than 0.3% after 5 years of use. Both percentages are the same as placebo users. One explanation that the research mentions for this is the nocebo effect. If you are aware of and expect certain side effects, they may occur.

Very rarely, men (less than 1%) can also suffer from rash or tenderness in the breast.

The package insert also contains possible psychological effects mentioned in men under 45 years of age. Like feelings of depression and anxiety. According to the package insert, these side effects are very rare and occur in less than 1% of finasteride users. In the conclusion of this scientific research published in the journal of clinical and aesthetic dermatology states, however, that there is no direct link between finasteride and depression. Although the science is not unanimous, Fellos always recommends discussing any depressive symptoms directly with a doctor.

On the finasteride medication page you can find more information about possible side effects. At the bottom of that page, there are also “frequently asked questions” - FAQ.

Are there long-term effects of finasteride?

Finasteride is safe for long-term use, with benefits that last as long as the drug is used. Study shows that hair growth continues to improve for up to 5 years with consistent use. After that, the effect consolidates and the number of hairs remains the same. When you stop taking finasteride, this often results in the recurrence of hair loss within 6-12 months.

When to contact a doctor

Fellos' doctors are always ready to answer any questions you may have. So if you are curious about something or have doubts about something, please send us a message, we will be happy to help you.

However, if you experience any of the following symptoms, it is important to definitely contact us.

• Persistent sexual side effects
• Psychological complaints

One of our doctors can help you assess whether to stop taking the medication or consider alternative treatments.

Is finasteride safe to use?

Finasteride is considered a safe and effective treatment worldwide. It has been approved by the European Medicines Agency (EMA) and the Medicines Evaluation Board (CBG) as a safe and effective hair loss medicine. Furthermore, it is good to note the following.

• Comprehensive studies: Clinical trials have confirmed the safety and effectiveness of finasteride in most users, with a small risk of side effects. See also the source citation at the bottom of this article.
• Possible side effects are manageable: Although side effects are possible, they usually disappear over time or when you stop using them.
• Large user base: Millions of men worldwide use finasteride, emphasizing the drug's reliability.

As with any prescription medication, monitoring by a doctor is essential, especially for long-term use. At Fellos, we are here to support you with any questions you may have.