Finasteride
A daily oral medication that helps slow hair loss and support regrowth in men.
What Finasteride is
Finasteride lowers the hormone DHT, which shrinks hair follicles in men with pattern hair loss. Reducing DHT helps existing hairs stay and can thicken hairs that have miniaturized. It is a long-term medication: benefits continue only while you keep taking it. Your care team pairs it with topical minoxidil when appropriate and tracks your progress with photos.
Who it may be appropriate for
- Men with male pattern hair loss at the crown or hairline
- Men who want to preserve the hair they have as much as regrow
- Men willing to commit to daily use for the long term
Who it is not for
- Women, and anyone who is or may become pregnant. Crushed or broken tablets should not be handled by women who are pregnant.
- Men with a history of depression that has been hard to manage, without provider discussion
- Anyone expecting results in a few weeks
Your protocol, over time
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1Months 1 to 3
No visible change yet. Some men notice a brief increase in shedding as follicles reset. This is normal.
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2Months 3 to 6
Shedding slows. Hair may look fuller, especially at the crown. Photos help you see it.
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3Month 12
Most of the visible benefit is established. Continued use maintains it.
What your care team watches
Every protocol is built on labs and reviewed by a licensed provider. Your care team tracks these markers and flags anything that needs attention before you have to ask.
Read this before you begin
- A small percentage of men report reduced libido, erectile difficulty, or reduced ejaculate volume. These usually resolve after stopping, though persistent symptoms have been reported.
- Mood changes, including depression, have been reported. Tell your care team right away if you notice them.
- Finasteride lowers PSA. Tell any physician who orders a PSA test that you take it so results are interpreted correctly.
- Breast tenderness or lumps should be reported to your provider.
- Women who are or may become pregnant should not handle broken tablets.
This is not a complete list of side effects, warnings, or interactions. Your provider will review your full history before prescribing and will provide complete medication information with your prescription. If you experience a medical emergency, call 911.
Frequently asked
What happens if I stop?
DHT returns to prior levels and hair loss resumes, usually within a few months.
Can I combine it with minoxidil?
Yes. Many protocols use both because they work through different mechanisms.
Is a topical version available?
Ask your care team. Topical formulations may be available through our pharmacy partner where clinically appropriate.
Membership provides access to Fortem's clinical care platform and provider network. All medical decisions are made by licensed providers. Fortem Health does not practice medicine or sell medication. Results vary by individual. This platform is not a substitute for emergency medical care. Medication availability depends on state licensing and clinical appropriateness.