Propecia

Propecia® is a prescription medication that treats male-pattern baldness. Michael Meshkin, MD, and Alister Meshkin, MD, at Meshkin Medical in Newport Beach, Glendale, CA, and the Greater Irvine / Los Angeles area, are dedicated to providing all treatment options to restore hair growth and prescribe Propecia when appropriate. Call the nearest office or book an appointment online today to learn more about Propecia for hair loss.

What is Propecia?

Propecia, finasteride’s brand name, is a prescription oral medication that treats male-pattern baldness, a hereditary condition common in men. Women also experience hereditary hair loss. However, Propecia is only FDA-approved for use in men.

The medication isn’t recommended for women because it may harm a male fetus.

Meshkin Medical specializes in hair restoration and offers many medical interventions to treat hair loss. In addition to Propecia, the team offers minoxidil, a topical medication that helps restore hair growth and reduce hair loss. 

Additionally, the hair restoration team has created its own treatment for hair loss — Meshkin Medical Hair Solution Compound. It contains minoxidil and other medications that benefit anyone suffering from hair loss. Vitamins that support hair growth are also available.

How does Propecia stop hair loss?

Propecia works by decreasing levels of dihydrotestosterone (DHT), the hormone responsible for causing male-pattern baldness, without affecting testosterone levels. 

High levels of DHT cause hair follicles to shrink and shorten the hair growth cycle, causing hair loss. The body makes DHT from testosterone, the male sex hormone. 

Research shows Propecia stops hair loss and may help regrow hair in men with male-pattern baldness. The medication doesn’t affect hair growth in any other area of the body.

The experts at Meshkin Medical conduct a thorough hair restoration evaluation before making any treatment recommendations. They talk to you about your options, and together, you decide how best to proceed.

Because you can absorb this medication through the skin and lungs, pregnant women or women who may become pregnant should avoid any contact with Propecia. 

When will I see the results from Propecia?

You may see improvements in your hair about three months after starting Propecia. You must take your Propecia as prescribed to get the best results. Usually, you take one dose a day around the same time every day with or without food.

How long do I have to take Propecia?

The specialists at Meshkin Medical can help you decide how long you should take Propecia. However, you need to continue taking it to maintain hair growth. Any hair growth gained while taking Propecia is lost about one year after stopping. 

The team at Meshkin Medical often uses Propecia as a complementary treatment following hair transplant procedures.

Find out more about Propecia and other medical treatments for hair loss at Meshkin Medical by calling the nearest office or booking a consultation online today.