Finasteride for Female Hair Loss: Risks and Alternatives

Finasteride mainly being a hair loss treatment for men is now also widely used by women with androgenic alopecia. The effects of the treatment did vary for different women. Finasteride is of a potent synthetic formulation, and it is advisable that female users of the product be mindful in its application.

The following are some precautions of using finasteride for female hair loss:

Birth Defects

Medical consultants advise against the use of finasteride during pregnancy or in women who may become pregnant. Finasteride can cause genital abnormalities in the male fetus. Women who are pregnant or possibly pregnant shouldn’t even handle crushed or broken tablets of finasteride because it can be absorbed through the skin.

Side Effects

Few adverse reactions have been noted in women receiving finasteride. Increased body hair, sweating and hot flashes, and headaches were reported during clinical studies of women receiving finasteride, but those effects were also noted in women not receiving the medication.

Liver Concerns

Finasteride should be used with caution by people with liver abnormalities because the drug is extensively metabolized in the organ.

The following are other treatment options you can try:

Treat the underlying problem

The average person loses 50 to 100 hairs a day. Consult your doctor or a dermatologist if your hair is shedding in larger amounts, thinning, or falling out. Proper diagnosis and treatment may help slow hair loss.

You should be referred to both a dermatologist and an endocrinologist to be screened for thyroid disease, iron deficiency, skin disorders, lupus, and other possible causes. If your hair loss is accompanied by excess facial and body hair, abnormal periods, or adult acne, your androgen levels should be tested.

Review with your doctor all medication and supplements you are taking

You may need to discontinue or change a drug if it contributes to hair loss. That may include certain antidepressants, anti-thyroid medicines, blood thinners, drugs for high blood pressure or heart problems, hormones, cholesterol-lowering medications, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory prescriptions such as ibuprofen and naproxen, and retinoids (e.g., acitretin, isotretinoin).

Eat adequately

Certain diets—especially those that skimp on protein—can trigger hair loss.