What is Propecia?
If you see signs of hair loss, it is a good time to start thinking about the steps you can take to slow it down. For men in their late 20s to 30s, what is the right treatment plan to look your best? Will you embrace hair loss and keep a close shave, or will you look at other options? The earlier you take action, the better your results will be when it comes to treating male pattern baldness, and medication may be a good option for you, including Propecia.
What is the Cause of Hair Loss?
The exact cause of hair loss is still not 100 percent proven. Research has shown that men with male pattern baldness have higher levels of dihydrotestosterone (DHT) in the areas of the scalp that is losing hair. DHT is one of many hormones found in the body. It is an important male hormone in earlier years, but with age, it can wreak havoc for those who wish to keep a full and thick head of hair. DHT is thought to impact the hair follicles, shortening the growth phase causing hair to fall out prematurely.
Propecia, approved by the FDA, has been used to effectively treat male pattern baldness for decades. Its active ingredient, finasteride, can lower the levels of DHT in the scalp helping to slow down or minimize further hair loss.
What Are the Benefits of Propecia?
There are several products on the market today that claim to slow down or reverse male pattern baldness, but how do you really know which product will be best for you? Finasteride was originally a medication used to treat an enlarged prostate. During those initial years, men were reporting hair growth with the use of the medication. Later, Propecia was developed for the specific use of male pattern baldness. With one pill a day, it’s easy to use, and an alternative to transplants.
How Long Does Propecia Take to Work?
Propecia gets to work right away. Once you take your first dose, Propecia will begin to target and block the formation of DHT. Visible results will take a bit longer, as hair growth doesn’t happen overnight. Most men will begin to see the slowing of hair loss in as little as three months. At around the six-month mark, new hair growth can be expected.
You can take Propecia as long as you see the benefits. It is important to remember to take your daily tablet consistently and doubling the dose will not make Propecia work better. When it comes to what works best for you, it is important to closely follow Dr. Heil’s directions for use of this medication.
Is There a Downside?
While this medication is proven to be effective in many men who are in their early stages of hair loss, it may night be right for everyone. When taking Propecia, some rare patients experience unwanted side effects. Speak with Dr. Heil to get the facts about this commonly-prescribed hair growth medication.
When considering treatment for hair loss, numerous studies have shown that after five years of treatment the majority of men have maintained their hair or experienced continued hair growth. And while there have been reports of side effects, they are rare, few patients choose to discontinue the use of this advanced hair growth medication due to side effects. Only you know your body and what is right for you. If you do start to experience any changes, it is important to discuss them with your doctor.
