Clinically proven treatment for male patttern hair loss or androgenetic alopecia.
Stop hair loss, regrow hair and renew your confidence with FDA-approved oral finasteride hair loss treatment.
Oral finasteride is a FDA-approved treatment for male pattern hair loss or androgenetic alopecia. Since the inception of oral finasteride hair loss treatment in 1997, it has helped many individuals halt relentless hair loss and improve hair growth.
Finasteride is a widely recognized pharmacological treatment for androgenetic alopecia (AGA), commonly known as male and female pattern hair loss. Its efficacy, safety profile, and mechanism of action have been extensively studied, making it a cornerstone in the management of this condition, particularly in men. Hair loss can significantly affect a person's self-esteem and mental health. A holistic approach helps in managing the emotional and psychological aspects of hair loss, providing a better quality of life for patients.
One of the reasons for male pattern hair loss is the effect of dihydrotestosterone (DHT) on the hair follicles. Other reasons include genetics, compromised vascular supply around the hair follicle and reduced anagen phase. Testosterone in the body is converted to DHT by the enzyme 5-alpha-reductase. Oral finasteride works by inhibiting the action of the enzyme 5-alpha-reductase and therefore reduces the circulating levels of DHT and its effects on the hair follicle.
Studies have shown oral finasteride 1mg/day to be effective in treating patients with androgenetic alopeica and long-term use of up to 5 years has shown significant hair growth and permanent stabilization of hair loss. A Japanese study of over 3000 males with hair loss demonstrated that 11.1% of subjects exhibited significant hair regrowth with finasteride use, 36.5% exhibited moderate growth, and 39.5% had only a slight increase in hair growth over a period of 3 years
Oral finasteride is a well-studied treatment for male pattern hair loss over more than 2 decades. Most patients tolerate the treatment well. In clinical trials, about 1.4% of patients had to stop the treatment due to side effects. The risk of loss of libido, erectile dysfunction and reduced ejaculate volume is less than 2%, and these symptoms usually improves over time.
Older men should have regular checks of their prostate with a serum prostate specific antigen (PSA) test and digital rectal examination. There is an increased risk of high-grade prostate cancer due to masking of PSA levels and delayed detection.
Oral finasteride and topical minoxidil are both used to treat hair loss, but they work in different ways and can vary in effectiveness depending on the individual.
Oral Finasteride:
Topical Minoxidil:
A study evaluating male patients with androgenetic alopecia over 12 months showed that oral finasteride to be more effective than topical 5% minoxidil at increasing hair density. The side effects were reported to be mild in both groups of patients.
Oral finasteride is commonly prescribed for male pattern hair loss (androgenic alopecia) and can be effective for many individuals. However, its suitability depends on various factors:
Diagnosis of Male Pattern Baldness: It is typically recommended for individuals who have been diagnosed with male pattern baldness, characterized by a progressive thinning of hair on the crown, temples, and frontal hairline.
Age: It is generally suitable for adult men, often starting from around age 18 or 20. It is not usually prescribed for adolescents or children due to potential risks and unknown effects on developing bodies.
Overall Health: Candidates should be in good overall health. People with certain medical conditions or who are taking specific medications may need to avoid finasteride or use it with caution. For instance, those with liver issues or those who have had prostate cancer should discuss risks with their healthcare provider.
Risk Tolerance for Side Effects: Individuals must be aware of and willing to accept potential side effects, which can include sexual dysfunction, mood changes, and other systemic effects. It’s important to weigh these potential risks against the benefits.
Commitment to Treatment: Oral finasteride requires ongoing, daily use to maintain effectiveness. Individuals should be prepared for the long-term commitment to the medication.
Pregnancy and Women of Childbearing Age: Finasteride is not recommended for women who are pregnant or may become pregnant, as it can cause birth defects. Women with a risk of pregnancy should avoid handling crushed or broken tablets.
Effectiveness Expectations: Candidates should have realistic expectations about the results. Finasteride is effective for many but may not be a cure-all for everyone. It’s more effective in individuals with early stages of hair loss and can help in maintaining existing hair and promoting new growth.
Oral finasteride is not suitable for everyone, and there are certain groups of people for whom it may be inappropriate or require special consideration. Here are some categories of individuals who may be unsuitable for oral finasteride:
Women:
Children and Adolescents:
People with Certain Health Conditions:
Allergic Reactions:
Individuals with Severe Renal Impairment:
Those with Significant Mental Health Conditions:
Long term treatment of oral finasteride for hair loss has been shown to decrease the likelihood of further hair loss in men. The drug is more effective at the vertex region compared to the frontal scalp.
Dutasteride, in particular, is noteworthy as it is approximately 3 times more potent against type II 5 alpha-reductase enzyme and 100 times more potent against the type 1 enzyme. It is often used for patients who have not experienced satisfactory results with finasteride. The adverse effect profile of dutasteride is similar to that of finasteride. The use of oral dutasteride is off-label for androgenetic alopecia in Singapore.
| TREATMENT | PRICE |
|---|---|
| Finasteride (Generic) | from $64.9 |
| Finasteride (Prop*cia) | from $100 |
| Dutasteride | from $135 |
| Topical 5% Minoxidil | from $60 |
| Topical 5% Minoxidil / 0.01% Tretinoin | from $96 |
| Topical Finasteride/ 5% Minoxidil | from $96 |
Oral finasteride 1mg is a 5 alpha reductase inhibitor and works by reducing the amount of active androgen, dihydrotestesterone (DHT) in men. More than 90% of men on this oral medication will experience a slowing of hair loss, and up to 60% may experience hair regrowth. These results are sustained over 5 years in one study, and is generally well tolerated. Hair regrowth with treatment is more prominent over the midscalp and vertex areas
Oral finasteride is contraindicated in women of childbearing age, pregnant women and children. Studies have shown that it causes male foetal genital abnormalities during pregnancy.
It is recommended that oral finasteride be continued indefinitely in order to salvage the hair preserved by the initial treatment. There are cases of rapid hair loss upon stopping oral finasteride therapy, and all gains made will be lost within 12 months.
A systematic review and meta-analysis in 2020 suggest an improvement in hair density and global photographic evaluation scores of combined topical minoxidil and oral finasteride compared to monotherapy. In addition, side effects of combination treatment did not differ much from that of standalone treatment.
Generally, there is very little data to support that low dose oral finasteride causes infertility. Studies have shown that even in cases of infertility, it is reversible upon stopping treatment.
No, blood donation is no allowed and is contraindicated for those while on treatment and 6 months after your last dose of oral finasteride treatment.
A 4-week course of treatment is $64.9 before GST.
Topical Minoxidil has an interesting story. It was discovered by accident, as doctors were using the oral form to treat high blood pressure and noticed the incidental side effect of increased hair growth. While it is unknown how minoxidil actually works, it should be used for at least 6 months for maximum efficiency. It is common for hair to shed for the first 2-6 weeks when starting treatment, but treatment should be continued as it will slow progression of the hair loss and partially restore hair in some cases over time. Minoxidil treatment can be used for male and female pattern hair loss.
Finasteride is a 5-alpha-reductase inhibitor. It works by blocking the conversion of testosterone to dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a hormone that plays a key role in androgenetic alopecia. By reducing DHT levels, finasteride helps to slow hair loss and, in many cases, stimulates new hair growth. To receive the best male or female hair loss treatment results, Dr.Ng offers a personalised treatment plan that is unique to your condition. Contact us to schedule an appointment today.
Finasteride is a potent and effective option for the treatment of androgenetic alopecia, particularly in men. While its use in women is limited and requires cautious consideration, it remains a valuable tool in the therapeutic arsenal against hair loss. Continuous monitoring and patient education are key to maximizing benefits and minimizing risks associated with finasteride therapy.
Dr. Moses Ng is a distinguished professional in the field of aesthetic medicine, renowned for his expertise in advanced cosmetic procedures. With over 15 years of experience, extensive training and a keen eye for detail, Dr. Ng specializes in a wide range of treatments, including injectables, laser therapies, and acne scar management.
Dr. Moses Ng’s commitment to excellence and patient-centric approach have earned him a reputation as a trusted clinician in aesthetic medicine. His continuous pursuit of the latest advancements in the field ensures that his patients receive the highest standard of care and the most effective treatments available.
