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In AGA treatment, one must make the best choice among various treatment options. The choices only become more and more numerous when considering side effects and long-term budgets. Especially for many AGA sufferers, “Is finasteride enough to start with?” They may wonder, “Is finasteride enough to start with?
There is considerable misunderstanding in the world about the effectiveness of finasteride (Propecia), and there is widespread concern about the efficacy and side effects of its single treatment.
This article details the actual effects of finasteride, the advantages and disadvantages of combination therapy, side effects and how to deal with them, from a doctor’s perspective. Through this article, you will gain a proper knowledge of the role of finasteride in AGA treatment and how to use it effectively.
To maximize your chances of hair regrowth, why not take a free consultation at the Osaka AGA Kato Clinic? Our doctors will recommend the best treatment for your condition. Please make an appointment on Line now.
Kentaro Kato, Hospital director of Osaka AGA Kato Clinic group, specializing in comprehensive hair treatment.
We specialize in cutting-edge treatments for a variety of clinically proven effective treatments for thinning hair and hair loss.
Graduated from Faculty of Medicine, Kinki University in 2001
Worked at plastic surgery of Osaka Medical and Pharmaceutical University Hospital as an anesthesiologist from 2001 to 2005.
Worked as a head of plastic surgery at major cosmetic surgery, Hair Transplant Department from 2005 to 2011.
Opened Osaka AGA Kato Clinic in 2011.
Japan Society of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Regular Member.
The Japanese Society for Regenerative Medicine, Regular Member.
World Academy of Anti-Aging & Regenerative Medicine, Regular Member.
Is Finasteride alone Sufficient for AGA treatment?
Finasteride (Propecia) plays a very important role in the treatment of AGA. However, treatment with finasteride alone may not be sufficient for all patients.
Finasteride monotherapy is considered suitable for mild to moderate AGA. For hair loss symptoms in the early stages, finasteride alone may be sufficient.
However, for severe hair loss symptoms, finasteride alone has limitations and may need to be used in combination with other treatments.
In addition, since the main effect of finasteride is to restore the hair cycle to normal, it takes about 6 months for the effect to become noticeable. Depending on the severity of symptoms, the individual’s constitution, and the expected results of treatment, concomitant use with other therapies may be recommended.
Mechanism of action of finasteride
Finasteride is the active ingredient in Propecia, a treatment for male pattern baldness (AGA). Finasteride slows the progression of hair loss and promotes hair growth by suppressing the production of DHT (dihydrotestosterone), the primary cause of male pattern baldness.
DHT is the primary cause of AGA and promotes contraction of hair matrix cells, shortening the duration of hair growth. Suppression of DHT production by finasteride is expected to improve the hair growth cycle and slow the progression of hair loss.
Finasteride inhibits the action of 5-alpha-reductase enzyme, which converts testosterone to DHT. As a result, it also has the effect of increasing hair thickness and density.
Side effects of finasteride
The following side effects have been reported with finasteride. However, the potential and intensity of side effects are not as great as those of other drugs.
| Side effect | Contents |
|---|---|
| Sexual dysfunction | Decreased libido, erectile dysfunction (ED), decreased semen volume, ejaculation disorder, etc. |
| Impaired liver function | Drugs can put a strain on the liver. It is important to check liver function values regularly. |
| Stomach discomfort | Drugs may cause stomach upset, but infrequently. |
| Hot flash | Rarely reported |
| Depression | Rarely reported |
| Rarely reported |
If any of these side effects occur, it is important to consult a doctor immediately to address them.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Finasteride-only treatment
This section describes the advantages and disadvantages of finasteride (Propecia) monotherapy.
Advantages of stand-alone treatment
The main advantage of finasteride monotherapy is the simplicity of treatment: just one tablet per day is sufficient to inhibit the progression of AGA.
Clinical studies have shown that finasteride promotes hair growth and slows the progression of hair loss, especially in patients with early to mid-stage AGA. Finasteride is also believed to have fewer side effects than other treatments, which is why it is the drug of choice for many patients.
Disadvantages of single treatment
One disadvantage of finasteride monotherapy is that its effectiveness varies among individuals. Not all patients will see a uniform effect, and in some cases, the expected results may not be achieved.
In addition, since finasteride has a gentle effect that returns the hair cycle to normal, it takes an average of 6 months to see results.
In addition, finasteride is associated with rare side effects such as decreased libido and psychological side effects. It is recommended that these risks be fully understood and that treatment be initiated only after consultation with a doctor.
4 ways to Maximize the Effectiveness of treatment with Finasteride alone
This section describes how to maximize the effectiveness of treatment with finasteride (Propecia) alone.
Regular dose
It is important to take finasteride regularly and continuously in order to obtain its maximum effect. Generally, it takes about 6 months to realize the effects of finasteride.
Therefore, long-term medication is necessary. Continued dosing can effectively inhibit the progression of AGA and improve the condition of hair loss.
Correct dosage
To maximize the effects of finasteride, it is essential to follow the correct dosing regimen.
Finasteride is usually taken once a day, one tablet at a time. Taking it at certain times of the day helps to maintain a constant concentration of the drug in the body and stabilize its effects.
It is also important to follow the dosage and duration of the drug according to the doctor’s instructions, and not to interrupt or change the dosage at one’s own discretion.
Improvement of lifestyle
A healthy lifestyle is important to enhance the effectiveness of finasteride. A well-balanced diet, adequate sleep, moderate exercise, and stress management can improve overall health and support the effectiveness of AGA treatment.
In particular, it is recommended to consume foods rich in vitamins and minerals that are good for scalp health and to maintain a lifestyle that improves blood circulation.
Regular consultation with doctor
Regular consultations with your doctor are essential to ensure the safety and effectiveness of finasteride treatment. It is important to report to your doctor the progress of your treatment and any side effects, and to receive adjustments to your treatment regimen as needed.
It is also recommended that any changes in your condition or concerns be immediately discussed with your doctor for appropriate advice.
How to combine Finasteride with other drugs
Finasteride is used in combination with other drugs to enhance the effectiveness of AGA treatment. Finasteride is mainly used in combination with minoxidil.
Minoxidil is a topically applied drug that improves blood flow and stimulates hair matrix cells to promote hair growth.
The combination of finasteride and minoxidil is expected to have a synergistic effect in that finasteride suppresses DHT production while minoxidil stimulates hair matrix cells to promote hair growth.
It is important that combination therapy be tailored to the patient’s condition and treatment goals and be administered under the supervision of a doctor.
Disadvantages of Combination Therapy
Disadvantages of combination therapy include increased risk of side effects and increased complexity of treatment. In particular, when finasteride and minoxidil are used in combination, the side effects of both drugs must be noted and the patient’s physical condition and response must be monitored appropriately.
In addition, managing multiple medications can be burdensome for patients.
Safety of Finasteride
Finasteride is generally considered safe and was approved in Japan by the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare in 2005. In the event of side effects, the Adverse Reactions Relief Program is available. 1997, the U.S. Drug Administration’s It was approved by the FDA in 1997 and is recognized as a safe AGA treatment.
Finasteride has been shown to be effective in the treatment of AGA and was developed by Merck in the United States in 1991. The drug was originally developed as a prostate treatment.
According to the Japanese Dermatological Association, a study of Japanese men who took finasteride (1 mg/day) continuously for 5 years reported that it was effective in 99.4% of cases.
With regard to the use of finasteride, it is important to consult with a doctor before starting treatment and to perform regular health checks.
Conclusion
To answer the question, “Is finasteride alone sufficient for AGA treatment?” To answer this question, this article details the effectiveness of finasteride, the efficacy of monotherapy, the benefits and risks of combination therapy, side effects and how to deal with them, and the importance of lifestyle modification and regular consultations with a doctor to maximize the effectiveness of finasteride.
Finasteride is an effective option in the treatment of AGA, but its use varies from person to person and the risk of side effects exists. Therefore, it is important to follow proper usage and to see your doctor on a regular basis.
AGA treatment is a long-term process, and the patient’s own understanding and the support of the doctor are essential.
At Osaka AGA Kato Clinic, we take your hair loss concerns seriously. During a free consultation, our doctors will propose a personalized treatment plan, including finasteride treatment. Reservations are available on Line.
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