What is Propecia (finasteride) used for?

Propecia is a prescription medicine that is used to treat male pattern baldness (androgenic alopecia). Off label, this medication can also be used to treat hair loss in women.

How does Propecia (finasteride) work?

Propecia is a 5-alpha reductase inhibitor. It blocks an enzyme called 5-alpha reductase which is needed to convert testosterone to dihydrotestosterone (DHT). DHT is the hormone responsible for causing male pattern baldness. By blocking DHT formation in the hair follicles, Propecia slows hair loss from the scalp.  

 What is the dosage of Propecia (finasteride)?

Propecia (finasteride) dosage form: 1 mg oral tablet .

Dosing: 
For male pattern baldness: the typical dose of Propecia (finasteride) is 1 tablet (1 mg) by mouth once daily.

For treatment of hair loss in women: the recommended dose of Propecia (finasteride) is 2.5 mg by mouth once daily. Compared to the 5 mg daily dosing, the 2.5 mg provides the same efficacy but fewer side effects. 

Finasteride is also available as a 5 mg oral tablet under the brand name Proscar. Proscar (finasteride) is used to treat the symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia.