Finasteride and Minoxidil: Are They The Same?

When your prescriber suggests that you take one of the two main courses of hair loss treatment, Minoxidil or Finasteride, or even combine the two treatments for a multi-faceted approach, you might be scratching your head as to why you’ve been advised to take one instead of the other, or both.

There’s a simple explanation for this and it’s down to what each medication does. This article will look at how similar Minoxidil and Finasteride are and discuss the differences between them.

How do Finasteride and Minoxidil differ?

To answer the initial question: no, Finasteride and Minoxidil are not the same. These are two separate forms of medication that work in different ways to try and achieve similar goals against male pattern hair loss.

Finasteride is typically provided as an oral tablet (which is HPRA-approved) to stop the conversion of testosterone into DHT, a hormone which contributes towards hair loss and thinning. Less DHT in your system means that your scalp will be protected against the harmful impact of DHT on your hair follicles.

Whereas, Minoxidil works to increase the blood flow and oxygen levels to your scalp and hair follicles. This should give the cells on your scalp better conditions to accept the crucial nutrients and vitamins your hair needs to grow.

Both medications, however, aim to slow, and hopefully stop, hair loss in its tracks so that your scalp and hair follicles are in a better condition to potentially commence regrowth.

Would using these medications together work?

Absolutely! You can boost your chances of seeing results by using these two medications in tandem.

For men who react badly to topical Minoxidil, there is an alternative option: a Minoxidil capsule, which may be preferable to those who find the spray difficult to use or remain consistent with, or who experience side effects such as irritation.

It’s important to bear in mind that no treatment is 100% effective. What works for some men might not work for you, and vice versa. Having said that, the likelihood that you’ll see positive results is strong as long as you maintain regular, consistent treatment as directed.

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All of our blog articles are reviewed for medical accuracy by our Medical Director before publication.

Posted in: All, Finasteride, Hair loss