Is there such a thing as a "shedding phase" after starting Propecia?

Question

I was on Propecia for 2 months when a shed began. I read on some forums that Propecia can have a "shedding phase" but it then stops and grows back. So I stayed on Propecia for an additional 2 and half months after the shed began. It never improved so I stopped. My dermatologist said he had never had a patient experience this "shed." I am considering trying Propecia again. Have you ever actually seen someone go through a shed and then it stopped and they experienced no more hairloss?

Matthew Richardson, MD · Answer

Although there are reports of Propecia causing an initial "shedding" phase, this is not something that I have seen in my patients. In some patients, Propecia may not affect the overall hair loss trajectory, and this could explain the shedding phenomenon (they simply lost hair that would have fallen out even without Propecia). In other patients, Propecia can be highly effective at stopping hair loss or even increasing hair mass over time. Patients should generally be encouraged to give Propecia a trial for a full 12 months (as long as they are not experiencing any side effects) before giving up. 2-3 months is simply not enough time to see a noticeable effect. Hair transplantation is also a great option for many patients in addition to Propecia. As always, a consultation with a fellowship-trained hair restoration surgeon is recommended in order to obtain an individualized treatment plan.Best,

Jae Pak, MD · Answer

There shouldn't be shedding with Propecia but you may read about it on line.  I personally have never seen patients complaint of this.  In the end, you have to weigh out the risks and benefits.

Jeff Donovan, MD, PhD · Answer

Any treatment that stimulates hair growth, whether minoxidil, finasteride, low level laser or platelet rich plasma can cause an initial shed. Shedding with finasteride (Propecia) can occur in the first 4-12 weeks and generally resolves.

Roy Stoller, DO, FAOCO, FAAO · Answer

I have seen many patients go through an initial shedding phase when they start Propecia.  Sometime it may last many months.  Most patients think the end result is worth it.

William Rassman, MD (retired) · Answer

Some patients, not many, report a shedding phase when they start the drug finasteride (Propecia) but it does not last very long (no more than 2 months).

Is there such a thing as a "shedding phase" after starting Propecia?

Answers (6)

Answer: Shedding or Telogen phase after starting Propecia is normal

Answer: Shedding or Telogen phase after starting Propecia is normal

Answer: Finasteride

Answer: Finasteride

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Is there such a thing as a "shedding phase" after starting Propecia?

Answers (6)

Answer: Shedding or Telogen phase after starting Propecia is normal

Answer: Shedding or Telogen phase after starting Propecia is normal

Answer: Finasteride

Answer: Finasteride

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Hair Loss Treatment

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.