Does Propecia work?

Propecia, also known by its generic name finasteride, is a prescription medication used for treating male pattern hair loss. It is available as an oral tablet and requires a doctor’s prescription.

Propecia works by lowering the levels of the hormone that causes hair loss.

Need a diagnosis or prescription quickly? Optum Perks offers personalized on-demand care in as little as 15 minutes. For $29, answer a few questions online and receive a diagnosis and treatment plan from a US-licensed healthcare professional. Get started here.

How successful is Propecia for hair regrowth?

Propecia is generally effective for hair regrowth. Research from 2018 found that 85.7% of participants experienced noticeable hair regrowth after 5 years of treatment with Propecia (finasteride). 

This long-term study suggestes that finasteride works well over time in treating hair loss caused by male pattern hair loss, also called androgenetic alopecia.

Finasteride works by blocking the enzyme that converts testosterone into dihydrotestosterone (DHT). An enzyme is a protein in the body that speeds up a chemical reaction. And DHT is a chemical linked to hair loss. By blocking the enzyme that helps create DHT, Propecia can help slow down hair loss and promote regrowth of hair.

As with all medications, results can vary from person to person. It’s important to talk with your doctor before starting treatment to ensure it’s safe and effective.

How long does it take to see results?

It typically takes more than 3 months to notice results after starting Propecia. It may take between 6 to 12 months of consistent use to notice more significant hair regrowth.

Some signs that Propecia is working include the following:

• Reduction in hair shedding: One of the earliest signs may be less hair falling out during washing or brushing, which can happen within the first few months.
• Slowing of hair loss: You may notice that thinning areas are not progressing as quickly as before.
• Thicker hair: Over time, hair in thinning areas may start to feel thicker or stronger, with more density.
• Regrowth: While Propecia is primarily known for stopping hair loss, some people may experience regrowth in thinning areas after consistent use for 6 to 12 months.

Consistency is important for Propecia to be effective, and missing doses can delay progress. But, everyone responds differently. Some people may see faster results while others may need more time.

If you do not notice any hair regrowth after a year, talk with your doctor about other possible treatment options.

Does Propecia work long term?

Yes, Propecia is most effective as a long-term treatment. The benefits of hair regrowth and reduction in hair loss typically last as long as you continue taking the medication. 

However, if you stop using Propecia, hair loss will likely resume within 12 months, and any regrowth gained during treatment may slowly be lost.

Propecia doesn’t offer a permanent cure for hair loss, but it can be a long-term solution as long as you maintain the treatment. For most people, using Propecia regularly is important to preserve their hair and prevent further thinning.

Propecia vs. alternatives

When comparing Propecia with other alternative hair regrowth treatments, it’s important to consider how each works and how effective it is.

Minoxidil 

Minoxidil (Rogaine) is a topical treatment that stimulates hair growth by increasing blood flow to hair follicles. While Propecia blocks DHT, the hormone linked to hair loss, Minoxidil promotes regrowth in thinning areas.

Studies show that both treatments are effective, but Propecia is generally better at preventing further hair loss, while Minoxidil is more effective at stimulating regrowth in existing thinning areas.

Dutasteride 

Like Propecia, dutasteride (Avodart) blocks DHT. Research suggests Dutasteride may be more effective than Propecia in preventing hair loss and promoting regrowth. It also carries a lower risk of side effects.

Spironolactone

Although doctors primarily use it for hormonal acne, sometimes they may prescribe spironolactone off-label for hair loss, especially in people assigned female at birth. 

While spironolactone is effective in women, men use it less often due to its hormonal side effects.

Note: Sex and gender exist on spectrums. In this article, we use the terms “men” and “women” to refer to a person’s sex assigned at birth.

Download the free Optum Perks Discount Card to save up to 80% on many prescription medications. Plus, you can now get them delivered to your home in as little as 3 days. Search for your medication here.

Summary

Doctors prescribe Propecia for the treatment of male pattern hair loss. It has shown significant success in regrowing hair for many people. It works by lowering DHT levels, slowing hair loss, and promoting regrowth in areas of hair thinning. 

While it can take a few months to see results, continued use is important for maintaining the benefits. When compared with other treatments like minoxidil, Propecia is an effective treatment option due to its ability to manage the hormonal cause of hair loss.