Finasteride (Propecia)

FDA Approved

Overall, the community sentiment regarding finasteride is mixed, with many users reporting positive experiences alongside some notable concerns. While a significant portion of users appreciate the benefits, others have encountered side effects that impact their quality of life.

Commonly Reported Benefits

  • Users report thicker hair and visible regrowth in thinning areas.
  • Many experience improved confidence and reduced anxiety related to hair loss.
  • Some individuals note increased libido and enhanced sexual satisfaction.

Commonly Reported Side Effects

  • Common side effects include erection issues and reduced libido.
  • Some users report physical discomfort, such as testicular pain and fatigue.
  • A number of individuals experience psychological effects like anxiety and mood swings.

Overall Takeaway

Finasteride has garnered a range of user experiences, with many praising its effectiveness in promoting hair growth and boosting confidence. However, it is important to note that some users have faced significant side effects, particularly concerning sexual function and psychological well-being. While the medication can provide substantial benefits, potential users should weigh these against the reported adverse effects and consider discussing them with a healthcare professional.

Effectiveness

Users report improvement

68%

Side Effects

Reported side effects

39%

Would Recommend

To others with same condition

61%

Avg. Duration

Average reported usage duration

N/A

Side Effects Frequency
Percentage of users reporting each side effect
Sentiment Analysis
User sentiment from reviews and feedback
Positive
54%
Neutral / Mixed
16%
Negative
30%

CA

Positive
9/17/2021
I’ve been on fin since 2017, I got on fin/min as soon as I noticed thinning, and added RU/microneedling later on (maximizing my hair has become a hobby) and I have thicker hair now in my late 20s than I did when I was a teenager. My confidence improved immensely and I have had no sides at all. Furthermore, I am very open about my finasteride use and was surprised how many of my friends opened up about using fin too, once I mentioned it. Not one fin user I have met IRL has had any side effects. This isn’t to invalidate people who do suffer from side effects, but from my own experience, and from the number of adverse events seen in clinical trials, fin side effects are rare.

GR

Positive
9/17/2021
Yes, my experiences have been totally positive. Started taking it when I was like 24(?) and now I’m in my mid forties. I recently switched to Dut but only cause 20 years of Fin and the efficacy was starting to wane so I switched to something stronger. Zero sides, zero regrets. YMMV

TU

Positive
9/17/2021
I noticed my hair thinning recently but nearly every guy in my family has a full head of hair. I told my doctor this and he was hesitant to give me fin as it might not be a result of MBP. I insisted and he gave it to me. I told my dad I was considering taking it but was scared about my wang. He let me know at my age (30) he started balding, took fin, and never had a side. He’s 53 now and has a very thick head of hair and perfect hairline. (Why didn’t he tell me this sooner???) Exciting news for me to say the least. I’m luckily extremely vain and noticed my hair thinning very very early. Everyone I asked about it told me I’m nuts but I clogged the shower drain with hair for the first time ever and wasn’t going to lie...

WI

Positive
9/17/2021
6 months on fin and if anything my libido has increased, whether that’s bc of fin I’m not sure

JO

Positive
9/17/2021
Even if you have side effects, they'll likely go away if you continue treatment. However, you can try to lower the dosage. That's what I did and it worked. With 1.25mg my erections weren't that good, orgasms weren't as intense, etc., but with 0.25mg I'm fine!
Frequently Asked Questions about Finasteride (Propecia)

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