What happens if I stop taking finasteride?

One of the most frequently asked questions about finasteride is: "How dangerous is it and what happens if I stop using it"? The question of whether the effect will last for a while or whether a deterioration in the hair situation can be expected immediately is a burning question for many sufferers.

Before we address this question, let's first clarify how the active ingredient finasteride works. Finasteride prevents the conversion of testosterone into dihydrotestosterone (DHT), the real culprit behind the whole problem. Independent studies show that taking 1mg of finasteride daily reduces DHT levels by 65-75% - enough to slow down or even stop the deterioration of your hair situation. The fact that you only need to take a small pill once a day and the cost is rather low compared to other methods makes it one of the most popular forms of treatment for genetic hair loss.
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How safe is it to take finasteride?

Due to its hormonal effect, the use of finasteride should not be underestimated. Several independent studies suggest that side effects occur in around 5% of patients, which in the vast majority of cases are associated with loss of libido, erectile dysfunction or a decrease in sperm volume. If the medication is discontinued as a result, symptoms can recover quickly. Recently, however, there have been an increasing number of reports from those affected complaining of long-term consequences such as impotence or depression.

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Finasteride only works as long as you take it

Finasteride works because it blocks the enzyme responsible for the formation of DHT. It therefore only helps you for as long as the active ingredient is active in the body, which is just a few hours when taking 1mg. As soon as you stop taking it, DHT will be produced again and your hair situation will start to deteriorate. You can expect that within a year your hair situation will go back to where it was before you took finasteride.

Finasteride can be a very convenient and effective solution to your problem. However, before you decide to take it, weigh up the risks carefully and seek advice from several independent experts. Our advice to you is: stay away from it!

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