Finasteride is a medication that is used to treat benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), which is a noncancerous enlargement of the prostate gland, and male pattern baldness. It works by inhibiting the enzyme 5-alpha-reductase, which converts testosterone to dihydrotestosterone (DHT). DHT is a hormone that plays a role in prostate growth and development, and inhibiting its production can help reduce the size of the prostate and improve urinary symptoms.
Two forms of Finasteride
Finasteride is available in two forms: oral and topical. There are several differences between the two forms of the medication, including their administration, effectiveness, and potential side effects.
Oral finasteride is taken by mouth in the form of a tablet and is typically taken once a day. It is absorbed into the bloodstream and distributed throughout the body, where it can inhibit the production of DHT. Oral finasteride is effective at reducing prostate size and improving urinary symptoms in men with BPH, and it is also effective at increasing hair growth and preventing hair loss in men with male pattern baldness.
Topical finasteride, on the other hand, is applied directly to the scalp in the form of a foam, solution, or gel. It is absorbed through the skin and into the bloodstream, where it can inhibit the production of DHT. Topical finasteride is also effective at increasing hair growth and preventing hair loss, but it may be less effective than oral finasteride for this purpose.
Side Effects
One main difference between oral and topical finasteride is their potential side effects. Oral finasteride is generally well-tolerated, with the most common side effects being sexual dysfunction (such as decreased libido and difficulty achieving an erection) and decreased semen production. Topical finasteride may cause fewer side effects than oral finasteride because it is absorbed through the skin and is not distributed throughout the body as widely. However, it can still cause side effects such as skin irritation, redness, and itching at the application site.
Availability of Finasteride
Another difference between the two forms of finasteride is their availability. Oral finasteride is available by prescription only and must be taken under the guidance of a healthcare provider. Topical finasteride is also available by prescription, but it may be easier to obtain than oral finasteride because it is not as potent and may have a lower risk of side effects.
Conclusion
In conclusion, oral and topical finasteride are both medications used to treat male pattern baldness and BPH. They work by inhibiting the production of DHT and are effective at increasing hair growth and improving urinary symptoms. However, they differ in their administration, effectiveness, and potential side effects, and they are available in different forms. It is important to discuss the appropriate form of finasteride and the potential risks and benefits with a healthcare provider before starting treatment.
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