Finasteride after 13 months, hair looks worse than ever, should I stop taking it?

Question

Hi. I'm 46 year old that has been on finasteride for over 13 months. My hair has never looked worse than it does today. At one point around month 9 my hair looked great and I would have been thrilled to maintain from there. At 13 months the amount hair and thickness I have lost is alarming. Wondering if I should ditch the Fin as it appears to be having an adverse affect on my hair. I have huge regret and wish I would have never started! Thanks! I'

Amir Yazdan, MD · Answer

Finasteride is a great tool to help prevent future hair loss. It is usually not enough to reverse hair loss on its own, unless the hair loss is recent. Finasteride benefits about 40-60% of individuals who use it. It is possible that you are a part of the 40-60% of individuals who the drug is ineffective on. It is possible you are experiencing a side effect. While side effects of the drug are rare, some individuals do experience increased hair loss. 
I recommend you see a hair restoration surgeon who specializes in the medical management of hair loss. They can help you determine if finasteride is the right medication for you. Keep in mind that sense your hair loss has been progressing over time, you may need a more aggressive approach to restore your hair. Methods such as PRP therapy, laser therapy, and hair transplant surgery are all effective ways to regrow hair.

Karl Hekimian, MD · Answer

Finasteride can slow down hair loss but cannot stop in completely.  Other factors are involved.  I would suggest a careful evaluation by a hair replacement physician for diagnosis and discussion of additional options.

Jeff Donovan, MD, PhD · Answer

You really need a detailed evaluation by a hair specialist. You need to figure out if you have just one condition or in fact more than one.

Finasteride after 13 months, hair looks worse than ever, should I stop taking it?

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Everything you need to know about Hair Loss Treatment

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Finasteride after 13 months, hair looks worse than ever, should I stop taking it?

Answers (3)

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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.