Should I go back to Propecia 5mg split into four?

Question

Hi. I have changed from taking Propecia 5mg split into four, which I had taken for 10years, to generic Finasteride 1mg. I have noticed a lot of shedding. Why am I shedding? I have been on Finasteride for years. I am concerned that I will lose all the hair I have managed to keep until now. Should I go back to 5mg split into four? Thanks

Jeff Rapaport, MD · Answer

Provided you are getting the generic from a reputable source, there should be no difference in the effectiveness of brand versus generic. The extra .25mg maybe making a difference, however this would be rare.Try obtaining the 5 mg generic and cut it into quarters. You may also try a different brand of generic.  Be aware that there are many generics that are not true equivalents.Finally, you should be reevaluated by your hair loss physician as there may be another process that is causing your hair loss and overcoming the Propecia.Jeff Rapaport MDCore Aesthetic Realself

Jeff Donovan, MD, PhD · Answer

Finasteride dosing in my opinion is more compex than we currently realize. Some males are sensitive to these small changes. I’d advise you to speak to your physician to ensure no other type of hair loss is being missed. You will want to discuss whether 1.25 mg dosing moving forward is the best plan or not.

William Rassman, MD (retired) · Answer

I have heard this before and I must assume that the genetic is not the quality that it is represented.  I would suggest that you go back to your 5 mg dose split into 4s

Should I go back to Propecia 5mg split into four?

Answers (3)