Will stopping Finasteride 1mg whilst on Minoxidil 5% cause hair loss again?

Question

I started using Finasteride 1mg 3 years ago and added Minoxidil 5% once a day 2 months after Finasteride use, and I really had good results at stopping hair loss and regrowing some new hair (1 year later of simultaneous use). Yesterday however, I decided to quit Finasteride whilst maintaining Minoxidil twice a day. So I am now concerned about knowing whether I will lose all my hair or Minoxidil alone twice a day is enough to maintain my hair (even if Finasteride was the cause of regrowing hair).

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

Yes, you may experience hair shedding and it will take up to 6 months to see results with Minoxidil.  I suggest seeing a hair loss expert now to evaluate and go over your condition and provide you information about your best treatment options. There are great non-invasive options like prp/progesterone and/or hair transplantation. See an expert. Best, Dr. Emer

Sean Behnam, MD · Answer

Whatever progress was a result of the Finasteride, you'll likely see it reversed over the next several months once it's stopped. Generally it's considered a permanent drug, in that to keep it's results you need to stay on it permanently.

Steven Gabel, MD, FACS · Answer

If you have been taking finasteride for 3 years, and you stop it, then you most likely will lose some hair.  The questions is why would you stop finasteride if you don't feel you have any side effects. Finasteride is probably the best medication we have for halting the progression of hair loss, there are side effects that prohibit some individuals from using the medication.

Jeff Donovan, MD, PhD · Answer

There is a 60-70 % chance that you will lose hair now that you have stopped finasteride. Please see a hair loss physician to review your situation. Finasteride helps most. Minoxidil helps a minority.

Richard E. Moore, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. It would be my recommendation that you resume Finasteride. Studies have shown an improved outcome when Finasteride and Minoxidil are combined. Discontinuing the Finasteride could well result in the loss of follicles sensitive to DHT. DHT is the principal cause of androgenetic hair loss. Finasteride decreases DHT levels in the scalp by 2/3. I hope this was helpful - Dr. Moore.

Will stopping Finasteride 1mg whilst on Minoxidil 5% cause hair loss again?

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Will stopping Finasteride 1mg whilst on Minoxidil 5% cause hair loss again?

Answers (5)

Answer: Stopping finasteride: What will happen?

Answer: Stopping finasteride: What will happen?

Answer: Stopping Finasteride

Answer: Stopping Finasteride

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Everything you need to know about Hair Loss Treatment

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