what does finasteride do for hair

Finasteride is a medication used to treat male pattern hair loss, also known as androgenetic alopecia, and benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). It works by blocking the action of an enzyme called 5-alpha-reductase, which converts testosterone to another hormone that causes the prostate to grow. In the case of hair loss, finasteride blocks the bodys production of a male hormone in the scalp that stops hair growth, leading to increased hair regrowth and slower hair loss. For men with hair loss, finasteride will increase the number of scalp hairs but will not increase the amount of body hair. It is important to note that finasteride is not approved for use in women or children, and women who are pregnant or may become pregnant should not handle crushed or broken tablets due to the risk of birth defects in male babies. If a woman comes in contact with the medication, the affected area should be washed right away. It is essential to consult a doctor before starting or stopping the use of finasteride, as the effects of the medication will only last as long as it is taken.