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Author:
Richard Mitchell


Finasteride was initially marketed to treat prostate conditions under the name Proscar in 5mg pills. It was known to inhibit the formation of DHT, a major contributor to both prostate cancer and male pattern hair loss.

Subsequent research showed that a 1mg daily dose of the same drug was sufficient to control hair loss for 83% of men after two years of treatment. Since 1998 this version has been marketed under the brand name Propecia and it remains the only prescription drug approved by the FDA specifically to treat hair loss. This approval extends only to men's hair loss because of the dangers finasteride presents to unborn male fetuses. Women of child bearing age should therefore consult with their physician before considering the use of this drug.

The main purpose of Propecia is to halt hair loss and maintain what hair coverage is left. It is therefore popular with younger men who want to control hair loss at an early stage. Men of all ages use it in combination with minoxidil to achieve a hair loss strategy that both halts hair loss and encourages new growth.

Propecia works by interfering with the process of androgenetic hair loss which usually follows this process:

1. High levels of an enzyme known as 5-alpha-reductase occur in cells of the hair follicle.
   
   
   
2. This enzyme converts testosterone into DHT.
   
   
   
3. DHT causes miniaturization of robust terminal hairs.
   
   
   
4. This results in fine, soft vellus hairs that provide limited scalp coverage.
   
   
   
5. The growth phase gradually shortens until these hairs are lost permanently.
   
   

| Article Keywords: Hair Loss

A Quick Note From The Publisher... If you like the article above, you may be interested in the following article which is also related to Hair Loss... Hair Loss - Natural Remedies Are Very Effective The subject of hair loss prevention, diligence and knowledge on proper hair care play important roles in avoiding hair loss. However, not all causes of hair loss are within our control, a good majority of the leading reasons for such a condition can be avoided with the correct regimens in caring for our scalp. So what are the proper steps for hair loss prevention, you might ask? One step is to avoid putting too many harsh chemicals on your hair. Hair will grow healthy quite naturally. If you stick with the basics, you'll have a healthier scalp and can avoid hair loss. While shampooing your hair, make sure that you'll give your scalp some good kneading and rubbing, to stimulate the follicles and promote sound hair growth. An effective hair loss prevention technique is supplementing your diet with the vitamins and nutrients needed for healthy hair growth. Vitamin B6, vitamin E, biotin, amino acids and zinc are essential components for the continual stimulation of the hair follicles. Being able to acquire a daily recommended dosage of these vitamins and nutrients will help you correct any hormonal imbalance that could potentially damage your hair. And since heredity is one of the leading causes of hair loss, balancing your hormones would also ensure that your descendants won't have to suffer the curse of Alopecia. These are simple steps for hair loss prevention, but they would require some commitment from you. To keep yourself motivated, always remember the fact that no one is spared from the potential of hair loss. Doing something about it today will ensure that your hair will always remain on top, figuratively and literally speaking. Then more and more of your closest friends notice how your hair is getting thinner. The best hair loss remedies, however, aren't...