Dr. Gibson recommends that people stop treatment if they experience insignificant results within 6 months. Side effects can include some dryness and irritation of the scalp. The product seems to be most effective in early stages of hereditary baldness. Finasteride, marketed as Propecia, was approved in late 1997. It is the first and only approved treatment for pattern baldness that comes in pill form.
Dosage is one tablet a day.
Like minoxidil, its positive results may take several months. Treatment should be stopped if you do not see any results after 12 months. Clinical trial results indicate that more than 80 percent of men taking finasteride may experience a slowing of hair loss, and more than 60 percent may show some new hair growth. Rare side effects include diminished libido and sexual function. Finasteride is currently available only by prescription.