Can a 33 Year Old Women Who Plans Never to Have Kids Use Propecia for Hair Loss?

I am a 33 year old female who has androgenetic alopecia. I have had some mild improvements with minoxidil but not entirely to my satisfaction. I have read up on Propecia and know it is not indicated for women. However, it's worked well for my brother. Is it safe to use if I don't plan on getting pregnant/having children? Is there any reason to believe that it may be effective in women?

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3 Doctor Answers | Asked by Los Angeles CA2638 in Los Angeles CA

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Propecia Simple Facts

Propecia has more side effects than Rogaine and is not FDA-approved for use by women for both safety reasons and lack of efficacy. I would not recommend it in this situation.

Spironolactone?

Is there a reason why you can't take Spironolactone? While it is also contraindicated during pregnancy, it is the drug of choice for women suffering with androgenetic alopecia. The effects are not lingering, so if you change your mind and want to have children at some point later in life, that option will remain. Studies have only shown efficacy for women who are post-menopausal anyway.

Finasteride may help women, but consider spironolactone first

Yes, you are right to believe that finasteride may work for you, too. The reason that it is not indicated for hair loss in women is due to the safety issues. It is ABSOLUTELY contraindicated in women of childbearing age. Pregnancy could result in serious birth defects, especially with a male fetus. In addition, the preliminary studies using finasteride 1mg daily in women did not demonstrate an appreciable difference. However, there are published studies... more