The results of this study were not quite as impressive as previous studies. The authors proposed that the slightly lower efficacy rates were probably due to the fact that frontal hair is generally harder to regrow than hair at the vertex. In clinical trials of up to two years in duration, side effects from finasteride have been uncommon. 8,10 Side effects disappeared in all men who discontinued therapy. For male pattern baldness, the 1 mg tablet of finasteride is taken once daily without regard to meals.
Patients can expect to see an improvement after about three months of continuous treatment.
Unfortunately, hair loss resumes at the pre-treatment rate if finasteride treatment is discontinued. In summary, finasteride 1 mg daily has been proven in clinical trials to help reduce hair loss and increase hair count in men with male pattern baldness. The beneficial effects of finasteride appear to be more significant for vertex baldness than frontal baldness. FDA clears Propecia for treatment of hair loss in men. Hair follicles and associated glands as androgen targets.