Finasteride, known by brand names like Propecia or Proscar, is a medication primarily prescribed for male pattern baldness (androgenetic alopecia). This condition involves hair follicles sensitive to dihydrotestosterone (DHT). Finasteride works by inhibiting the enzyme 5-alpha reductase, which converts testosterone into DHT. By reducing DHT levels, the medication helps prevent hair follicle miniaturization, slowing hair loss and promoting regrowth.
Impact on Hair Regrowth
The benefits of finasteride for hair growth and preventing further hair loss depend on continuous use. Its effect of lowering DHT levels persists only as long as it is actively taken. Once finasteride is discontinued, the inhibition of the 5-alpha reductase enzyme ceases.
As a result, DHT levels typically return to pre-treatment concentrations within approximately two weeks. This allows hair follicle miniaturization to resume, reversing the hair gains achieved during treatment. Individuals who stop taking finasteride generally observe a resumption of hair loss within several months to a year, returning to the balding pattern they would have experienced without the medication. The rate and extent of this renewed hair loss can vary, influenced by individual genetic factors and the severity of their underlying hair loss condition.
Changes in Side Effects
Many side effects experienced while taking finasteride, such as sexual dysfunction, mood changes, or breast tenderness, typically resolve after discontinuing the medication. These effects often diminish within days to weeks or a few months as the body eliminates the drug and hormone levels rebalance. Clinical observations suggest that 96% to 98% of men see their side effects disappear after stopping finasteride.
However, a subset of individuals reports persistent side effects even after ceasing finasteride, a condition sometimes referred to as Post-Finasteride Syndrome (PFS). PFS describes a range of symptoms that can continue for months or even years beyond stopping the medication. These enduring symptoms may include sexual dysfunctions such as erectile dysfunction, reduced libido, or difficulty achieving orgasm.
Beyond sexual effects, individuals with PFS have also reported neurological and psychological symptoms. These can manifest as mood changes, including depression and anxiety, cognitive issues such as “brain fog” or memory problems, and general fatigue. While the exact mechanisms underlying PFS are not yet fully understood and its prevalence remains unclear, it represents a complex area of ongoing research. If any side effects persist or new concerns arise after discontinuing finasteride, seeking guidance from a healthcare professional is important.
Considerations Before Discontinuation
Discontinuing finasteride involves careful consideration and should always be discussed with a healthcare professional. Consulting a doctor ensures the decision is made with a full understanding of potential outcomes and alternatives. Factors for stopping include cost, perceived lack of efficacy, side effects, or personal choice.
While finasteride can be stopped abruptly without causing withdrawal symptoms, as it does not lead to physical dependence, medical guidance is still recommended. A healthcare provider can offer personalized advice based on medical history and current health status. They can also discuss alternative strategies for managing hair loss or address any persistent side effects that may occur after cessation.