Finasteride for Hair Loss: What Australian Men Need to Know

Finasteride is the most effective single oral medication for male pattern baldness (androgenetic alopecia). It's been prescribed for hair loss since the late 1990s and has extensive clinical evidence behind it. Here's what you need to know before starting treatment.

How finasteride works

Male pattern baldness is driven by dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a potent androgen that shrinks hair follicles until they stop producing visible hair. According to Healthdirect Australia, this process is genetic and progressive.

Finasteride works by blocking the enzyme 5-alpha reductase (specifically the Type II form), which converts testosterone into DHT. This reduces scalp DHT levels by approximately 60% and blood DHT by around 70%. With less DHT attacking your follicles, miniaturisation slows or stops, and regrowth can occur in follicles that haven't been permanently lost.

What results to expect

• Month 1–3: Some initial shedding is normal — old hairs being pushed out by new growth. This can feel counterintuitive but is actually a positive sign.
• Month 3–6: Visible slowing of hair loss. Some men begin to notice early regrowth, particularly in the crown area.
• Month 6–12: Maximum benefit is typically reached. Clinical trials show the majority of men experience meaningful improvement in hair density.
• Ongoing: Treatment must be continued indefinitely. Stopping finasteride leads to resumed hair loss within 6–12 months as DHT levels return to normal.

Side effects: what the evidence shows

The majority of men take finasteride without side effects. In the original clinical trials, reported rates were:

• Decreased libido: 1.8% (vs 1.3% placebo)
• Erectile difficulty: 1.3% (vs 0.7% placebo)
• Decreased ejaculate volume: 0.8% (vs 0.4% placebo)

A review published in the Indian Journal of Dermatology found sexual adverse effects occur at rates of 2.1% to 3.8%, with erectile dysfunction being the most commonly reported. These effects typically resolve if the medication is stopped. Your GP will discuss the risk-benefit profile during your consultation.

Finasteride + minoxidil: combination therapy

Combination therapy consistently outperforms either treatment alone. Finasteride tackles the hormonal cause (DHT), while minoxidil stimulates follicle blood flow. Many dermatologists and GPs recommend both together for the best clinical outcome.

Getting a prescription in Australia

Finasteride is a Schedule 4 prescription medicine in Australia. You need a consultation with a registered medical practitioner. At Men's Health GP, a 15-minute telehealth consultation with an AHPRA-registered GP covers assessment, discussion of expectations, and an e-script sent to your phone — which you fill at any Australian pharmacy.