Finasteride
Propecia (finasteride) is a prescription medication primarily used to treat male pattern hair loss in men. It works by inhibiting an enzyme that converts testosterone to dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a hormone that contributes to hair follicle shrinkage in genetically predisposed individuals. Propecia is FDA-approved for use in men only and requires continued use to maintain hair growth benefits.
Propecia is a prescription hair loss treatment for men that works by reducing DHT levels to slow hair loss and promote hair regrowth.
Key facts at a glance
- RxNorm
- 219462
- Generic
- Propecia
- Class
- brand-name
- Brands
- —
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- —
- Forms
- —
- Regions
- US, EU, CN, JP
- Monitoring
- —
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Propecia is FDA-approved for the treatment of male pattern hair loss (androgenetic alopecia) in men. It is indicated for use at the crown and middle front of the scalp, not for baldness at the front temporal areas. It is not indicated for use in women or children.
Propecia contains finasteride, which acts as a type II 5-alpha-reductase inhibitor. The enzyme 5-alpha-reductase converts testosterone to dihydrotestosterone (DHT). By reducing DHT levels, Propecia helps to decrease hair loss and potentially stimulate hair regrowth in men with male pattern hair loss.
Propecia is for use by men only and should not be handled by women who are pregnant or may become pregnant due to risk of harm to a male fetus. Common side effects may include decreased libido and erectile dysfunction. Benefits are typically maintained with continued use; stopping treatment may reverse hair growth within 12 months. A generic version is available.
Official drug label
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This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 9, 2026. · Read our editorial policy