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Finasteride is a medication primarily used to treat male pattern hair loss (androgenetic alopecia) and benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), a condition where the prostate gland enlarges and causes urinary problems.
Finasteride works by inhibiting the enzyme 5-alpha-reductase, which converts testosterone into dihydrotestosterone (DHT). DHT is a hormone that contributes to hair loss and prostate enlargement. By reducing DHT levels, finasteride helps to slow down hair loss and promote hair regrowth in men with male pattern baldness. It also helps to shrink the enlarged prostate gland, relieving urinary symptoms associated with BPH.
It is important to note that finasteride is only effective as long as it is taken. Once the medication is discontinued, hair loss may resume, and prostate enlargement may progress. Additionally, finasteride is not recommended for use in women, especially those who are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, as it can cause birth defects in male fetuses.