How does Propecia work?
Propecia finasteride is an antiandrogen, thatworks to reduce the type two 5-alpha reductase. Type two 5-alpha reductase is the enzyme, responsible for changing testosterone into dihydrotestostorone. As such, Propecia reduces the levels of dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a hormonal component, prone to attacking the scalp and follicles. In order to fully comprehend how Propecia works, we must first understand the process of male pattern hair loss.
Male pattern hair loss is not a new phenomenon. Simply have a look around your office or a local sports fixture and you will see you are not alone. Male pattern hair loss affects around half of all men by the age of 50. People can begin to lose hair as early as their teens. However, if left untreated, the condition will potentially progress, leading to a complete loss of hair.
The process of hair loss, involves a number of stages, and Propecia will essentially work by stopping male pattern hair loss in its tracks. A particular scale, known as the Norwood-Hamilton scale is often used to examine what stage your hair loss is at.
The fundamental cause of male pattern hair loss is the hormone DHT and, as mentioned above, Propecia has been proven to be effective in tackling high levels of this hormone, by blocking the enzyme 5-alpha-reductase. As a result, positive effects can be observed in a matter of months. In 50% of cases Propecia not only stops hair loss in its tracks it also increases the number of scalp hairs, which helps to “fill-in” thin and balding areas of the scalp. However, this product requires patience, in terms of results.
Propecia will only work for as long as the medication is taken, thus it is important to stick with the course. If you do, however, Propecia will bring a solution to the problem of male pattern hair loss for you.
Propecia has proven successful in a number of clinical trials, with 86% of people who able to benefit from a reduction in side effects, and a decrease in hair loss; this was in comparison with 42% of those who took the placebo-treatment.