Finasteride is FDA-approved to treat male pattern hair loss. It's safe and it is the most effective FDA-approved treatment for male pattern hair loss. It acts predominantly by increasing hair diameter and growth rate, although increased hair counts are also observed to a lesser degree. Studies have shown that daily treatment with 1 mg finasteride results in stabilization of pattern hair loss in about 50% of patients and regrowth in 48%. The first signs of efficacy are usually seen at 3 months, when men who complain of increased hair shedding during their hair-loss process begin to notice less shedding. One year of therapy is required to fully assess stabilization and/or regrowth. I recommend scheduling a consultation with a hair loss specialist.
