Finasteride Alternatives

Table of Contents

• What is Finasteride and What Is It Used For?
• Why Might You Want to Find a Finasteride Alternative?
• Medical Alternatives to Finasteride for Treating Hair Loss
• Can I Take Finasteride with Other Hair Loss Treatment?
• Natural Alternatives for Managing Hair Loss
• Key Takeaways

What is Finasteride and What Is It Used For?

Finasteride belongs to a class of medication called 5-alpha reductase inhibitors, also referred to as DHT blockers. It is known as an effective treatment for hair loss and is usually taken by men to treat androgenetic alopecia (male pattern baldness). It works by blocking the body’s production of dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a hormone which can stop hair from growing naturally. 

Finasteride 1mg is the usual dosage for treating hair loss and it is only available with a private prescription. It must be taken once a day around the same time with or without food. It can take at least 3 months to a year to see improvements. Finasteride will only work as long as it’s been taken regularly. [1]

In a clinical study, 86% of men treated with Finasteride for mild to moderate male pattern baldness maintained or showed increased hair regrowth. Ongoing research has also shown that the medication stops hair loss or promotes hair regrowth in 9 out of 10 men who take it daily on a long-term basis. [2]

In addition to reducing hair loss, Finasteride 5mg is is also the usual daily dosage for treating benign prostate enlargement (BPE) or benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), also known as an enlarged prostate. As the 5mg dose contains a higher amount of the active ingredient, it maintains DHT levels and shrinks the enlarged prostate gland, relieving signs of urination discomfort. The higher dose is not typically prescribed to patients with male pattern baldness as it may increase the risk of potential side effects.

Why Might You Want to Find a Finasteride Alternative?

While Finasteride has shown impressive results, some individuals might want to avoid taking it and find an alternative to combat hair loss. Some reasons for this include:

1. It Is Not Generally Recommended For Women

Finasteride is mainly prescribed to men, it is not generally recommended for women with female pattern baldness. This is because it works by blocking the enzyme which converts testosterone into DHT. The female body produces much smaller amounts of testosterone and DHT compared to the male body. Therefore, it will not have the same effect on women. It may be prescribed to women in rare cases. 

2. Unwanted Side Effects 

Some individuals may avoid Finasteride due to the unwanted side effects. Like any other medication, finasteride has some common side effects including decreased sex drive, erectile dysfunction and depression. These side effects affect more than 1 in every 100 people, although they may reduce over time. [3]

3. Other Hair Loss Conditions

Finasteride is specially designed to treat androgenetic alopecia (male pattern baldness). It is not approved to treat other hair loss conditions such as alopecia areata or telogen effluvium. Individuals who suffer from other hair loss conditions may have to look at alternatives for more effective results.

4. Allergic Reactions

Some individuals can have a serious allergic reaction to Finasteride and therefore need to look at alternatives. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include swollen lips, mouth, throat or tongue, skin rashes, itching, difficulty breathing or swallowing and dizziness. Finding an alternative treatment for hair loss can help avoid the risk of an allergic reaction, providing a safer option.

Medical Alternatives to Finasteride for Treating Hair Loss

Fortunately, there are several alternatives medications individuals can try instead of Finasteride for treating male and female pattern baldness. Let’s take a closer look at each alternative and explain how they can help you achieve your hair growth goals.

Minoxidil

Minoxidil is another common treatment for mild to moderate cases of hair loss or thinning in men and women. It is available in strengths ranging from 2% to 6%. It comes as an over-the-counter topical solution or foam which is applied twice a day to the affected scalp area. It is also available by prescription in the form of oral tablets. Minoxidil is known as a relatively safe and well-tolerated solution which shows results within 3-6 months with correct usage.

As to how Minoxidil works is still not fully understood, research suggests it increases blood flow around the hair follicles, stimulating hair to the growth phase and extending the growth phase. It is worth noting that it is only scientifically proven to treat hereditary hair loss, rather than hair loss caused by stress or an illness. [4]

Dutasteride

Dutasteride is another prescription-only medication used to treat male pattern baldness. It belongs to the same class as Finasteride (5-alpha reductase inhibitors) and works similarly by blocking the enzyme that converts testosterone into DHT.  Some studies have compared the efficacy of Dutasteride and Finasteride. In one study, Dutasteride significantly increased hair count, width and growth in men with androgenetic alopecia compared with Finasteride after 24 weeks of treatment. [5]

Regaine

Regaine is the brand name for a medication that contains the active ingredient, Minoxidil. It is clinically proven to treat male and female pattern baldness and promote hair restoration. It is applied topically to the scalp and works by increasing blood flow to the hair follicles and prolonging the growth phase of the hair cycle. It may take 3 to 6 months of regular use before results are noticeable, and continued use is often necessary to maintain any hair regrowth. [6]

Propecia

Propecia is the brand name of a prescription-only medication that contains the active ingredient, Finasteride. It is commonly used to treat male pattern baldness by reducing the amount of dihydrotestosterone (DHT), which is a hormone that can cause hair follicles to shrink and eventually stop producing hair. By stopping the production of DHT, Propecia helps slow down or even reverse hair loss in men. It is not approved for use in women and should not be used by pregnant women due to the risk of birth defects.

Hair Transplants: A Surgical Solution

For those looking for a more direct approach to address hair loss, a hair transplant may be an effective option. Modern techniques like Follicular Unit Extraction (FUE) and Follicular Unit Transplantation (FUT) allow for the removal and implantation of hair follicles from different parts of the body to the scalp. They offer a permanent solution but require proper consultation with specialists to understand potential outcomes and side effects.

Can I Take Finasteride with Other Hair Loss Treatment?

Taking both Finasteride and Minoxidil can enhance results. Finasteride is taken orally, while Minoxidil is a topical treatment that is applied directly to the scalp. Using both treatments together can potentially be more beneficial than using each individually, due to their differing modes of action. However, it's important to consult with your doctor before starting any treatment to understand possible side effects and ensure the combination is appropriate for you.

Natural Alternatives for Managing Hair Loss

Addressing Hair Loss with Nutritional Supplements

While medications are widely used to combat hair thinning, certain vitamins and minerals can also play a crucial role in maintaining healthy hair. Here are key nutrients to consider for a more natural approach:

• Vitamin D: Often linked to seasonal hair loss, Vitamin D is crucial for hair cycling, particularly for those who may not get enough sunlight.
• Biotin (Vitamin B7): Frequently recommended for hair health, this biotin helps in producing keratin, which can increase hair follicle growth.
• Zinc: Zinc supplements can help reduce hair loss by supporting hair shafts' structure and cell reproduction.
• Iron: Iron deficiency, which is common in women due to menstrual cycles, can exacerbate hair shedding. Ensuring adequate iron intake is vital for healthy hair and can be assessed by blood tests.
• Vitamin A: All cells need vitamin A for growth, including hair, the fastest growing tissue in the human body. However, too much Vitamin A can be harmful, so moderation is key.

Always consult with a healthcare provider before starting any supplement regimen to ensure it's appropriate for your specific health needs.

Diet Improvements for Hair Health

Diet plays a pivotal role in hair health. Consuming lean proteins, fruits, vegetables, unsaturated fats, and whole grains can support hair growth. Omega-3 fatty acids, found in fish like salmon and sardines, nourish the hair, and antioxidants help protect hair follicles. Drinking enough water is equally important as dehydration directly impacts your hair growth.

Actively Manage Your Stress Levels

Stress is a significant factor in hair shedding and thinning. Managing your stress levels through techniques such as mindfulness meditation, regular physical exercise, and adequate sleep can mitigate further loss. Yoga and deep breathing exercises can also be particularly effective in reducing stress.

Key Takeaways

While Finasteride is a well-established treatment for hair loss in men, it is not the only option available. Understanding the various alternatives, from other prescription medications like dutasteride to lifestyle improvements, can help you make an informed decision that aligns with your health needs and personal preferences. It is important to always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment to ensure it is safe and appropriate for your specific condition. By staying informed and proactive, you can better manage your hair loss and feel confident in your treatment plan. 

Sources

1. Medline Plus. (2022). Finasteride. Retrieved on 13th August 2024, from: https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a698016.html
2. DermNet. (1998). Finasteride. Retrieved on 13th August 2023, from: https://dermnetnz.org/topics/finasteride
3. NHS. (2023). Side Effects of Finasteride. Retrieved on 13th August, from: https://www.nhs.uk/medicines/finasteride/side-effects-of-finasteride/
4. Regaine. (2019). How Minoxidil Works. Retrieved on 13th August 2024, from: https://www.regaine.co.uk/minoxidil/how-minoxidil-works
5. National Library of Medicine. (2013). A randomized, active- and placebo-controlled study of the efficacy and safety of different doses of Dutasteride versus placebo and Finasteride in the treatment of male subjects with androgenetic alopecia. Retrieved on 13th August 2024, from: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24411083/
6. Regaine. (2019). How Regaine Works. Retrieved on 13th August 2024, from: https://www.regaine.co.uk/minoxidil/how-regaine-works

Whilst all of our content is written and reviewed by healthcare professionals, it is not intended to be substituted for or used as medical advice. If you have any questions or concerns about your health, please speak to your doctor.