+1 (561) 394-0024
Contact
Non-Surgical

Propecia and Finasteride

At Bauman Medical, we often prescribe Propecia® because it has proven to be a safe, convenient, and effective medical treatment for many men experiencing genetic hair loss. Approved by the FDA in 1997, Propecia (finasteride 1mg) is the first oral medication clinically proven to treat male pattern hair loss, specifically in the crown and mid-scalp regions.

In clinical trials, Propecia halted hair loss in over 80% of men and promoted regrowth in more than 66% of cases. Male pattern hair loss is scientifically linked to the effects of dihydrotestosterone (DHT) on genetically sensitive hair follicles. DHT contributes to progressive thinning, increased shedding, and eventual follicle miniaturization. Propecia works by selectively inhibiting type 2, 5-alpha-reductase, the enzyme responsible for converting testosterone into DHT. By reducing DHT levels in the scalp, Propecia can help stabilize and, in many cases, reverse the hair loss process.*

Long-term data supports the effectiveness of Propecia. Over a five-year study period, men taking the medication had approximately 300 more hairs per square inch (roughly the size of a quarter) compared to those taking a placebo. In fact, after five years of consistent use, 90% of men either maintained or improved their hair density.*

Propecia is generally well tolerated with a low incidence of side effects. A small percentage of men (approximately 2%) may experience changes in sexual desire or function. These effects are typically reversible upon discontinuing the medication. Propecia does not impair sperm function or fertility and poses no risk to pregnant partners through sexual contact. However, women who are pregnant or may become pregnant should not take or handle Propecia tablets due to the risk of absorption.

As a licensed direct-dispensing physician in Florida, Dr. Alan Bauman offers convenient in-office dispensing of Propecia, along with a Propecia AUTOSHIP program that ensures timely delivery, competitive pricing, and eliminates the need for pharmacy visits or refill requests.

To monitor response to treatment, Dr. Bauman uses advanced diagnostic tools such as CapilliCARE and Folliscope digital microscopes to measure hair density and caliber in key areas of the scalp. Standardized photography is also used during each follow-up appointment to document progress and guide ongoing treatment recommendations.

It is a well-known fact that most people ‘drop off’ their hair restoration medications because hair loss (and hair regrowth) changes are subtle. Tracking your results from a Propecia regimen (or other prescribed therapy) is critical. However, because the ‘results’ of any hair restoration treatment or procedure happen slowly over time, specific exams and testing is needed. Dr. Bauman uses a standardized set of photos to track scalp coverage, as well as the Folliscope (digital microscope) to look at hair density and caliber in several areas of the scalp. These digital photos and density measurements become part of your medical record and can be compared with future measurements and photos months later. Routine follow-ups are recommended at least twice a year to monitor hair growth and hair loss changes. While in Chicago, Dr. Bauman was interviewed by Sylvia Perez (ABC News) regarding hair restoration treatments and procedures, as well as the best way to track their results.

Propecia is available only by prescription. For more information about whether or not this medication is right for you, call our office to schedule a consultation with Dr. Bauman.

In the United States, Propecia (finasteride 1mg) is approved only for the treatment of hair loss in men. However, a recent Italian study suggested that finasteride 2.5mg may have a beneficial effect in women suffering from female pattern hair loss. In the study, 37 women were treated with oral finasteride 2.5mg/day while taking an oral contraceptive. At 12 months, 23 of the 37 patients (~62%) were rated as improved using photography. Twelve patients had statistically-significant density increases. Further studies are indicated. (Oral contraception was used because the use of finasteride (or propecia) in women of child-bearing age poses a theoretical risk to a developing male fetus.) The use of finasteride in female patients is considered ‘off-label’ in the U.S., however some hair restoration physicians (including Dr. Bauman) do prescribe it for select women. Read the abstract from Archives of Dermatology Genetic Hair Loss Testing is available from Dr. Alan Bauman and Bauman Medical Group. It takes just a few minutes to perform a simple cheek-swab to be sent to the lab. Results are obtained within a few weeks.

Call • +1 (561) 394-0024
Book Evaluation

Boca Raton / New York City
Book Evaluation