Finasteride Finally Explained
If you haven’t heard of the term Finasteride, that’s alright. It is marked as many different names including Proscar, Propecia, Fincar, Finpecia, Finax and so many other names. Essentially this chemical is a synthetic antiandrogen that acts as an inhibitor type II 5-alpha reductase. Reductase is the enzyme that converts testosterone to dihydrotestosterone or DHT. It is used as a treatment for benign prostatic hyperplasia in small doses and Prostate Cancer in higher doses. This chemical is one of the leading helping agents for enlarged prostate and prostate cancer.
Two main uses for this chemical revolve around the male prostate. The first and most dosage given to patients is for Prostate Cancer. Many different people found that it helped reduce the incidence of the disease by up to thirty percent. There have been several studies to back the claims, and most men in the studies did in fact get positive results. A main concern amongst patients and physicians was whether or not Finasteride would increase the risk of high-grade Prostate Cancer. After several studies in which the Prostate of many participants were removed, studies found that the chemical showed no major risk to the patient.
The other use of the chemical is for the treatment of benign prostatic hyperlasia, which is commonly called BPH or an enlarged prostate, usually at a dose of five milligrams once a day. Some patients found that it took upwards of six months and beyond to see the full effects of Finasteride. The drug only works as long as the patient takes it, which seems obvious, however, studies have shown that the results reverse when the drug halts being prescribed. The main thing that BPH sufferers will notice is that the drug helps aid difficulty urinating, getting up during the night to urinate, and hesitation at the start of urination, as well as decreased urinary flow.
Aside from two major reasons to use Finasteride, the drug is used to help mild to moderate hair loss. Almost half of people that were subscribed Propecia in low dosages, experienced moderate regrowth of hair and many found that they saw a halt to further hair loss. More than an average amount of people given this treatment, showed increasing difference from hair count in many groups. However, the main thing that separates this from such products as minoxidil, is that it seems to not work on women. Women with gradual hair loss have not seen major hair regrowth with this treatment. However, some argue that the control groups were with post-menopausal hair loss, rather than early on set hair loss. Doctors have and can prescribe this solution for women, but birth control measures must be in place so that women are not pregnant while on this treatment.
Like with any other treatment for anything, there are side effects. These effects can be mild, while others can be much more aggressive. These things can be discussed with a doctor, and should not be taken lightly. If you’re experiencing any symptoms associated with enlarged prostate at all, you should see a doctor immediately. If you’re experiencing hair loss, you should consult a physician before jumping into any regimen, and make sure you ask questions, so that you’re well informed.
