Finasteride can cause sexual side effects, and its labeling includes reports of persistent symptoms after stopping. Mood changes, breast symptoms and fertility concerns also deserve attention. Risk estimates differ between hair-loss and prostate-treatment studies. Review the exact product and indication rather than combining every reported percentage.
Oral finasteride is FDA-approved for male pattern hair loss in men. It lowers DHT and can slow further loss; some men also regrow hair. Benefits require continued use, and side effects deserve a discussion before treatment. The approval does not extend to compounded topical finasteride.
DHT contributes to male pattern hair loss in genetically susceptible scalp follicles. It gradually makes affected hairs finer and shorter. A high blood DHT result is not required, and a blood test alone cannot diagnose the pattern. The scalp examination usually tells you more.
