Q. Does Propecia work?

A. For most men, Propecia increases the number of scalp hairs in the first year of treatment, helping to fill in thin or balding areas of the scalp.

In addition, men taking Propecia may note a slowing of hair loss. Although results will vary, generally you will not be able to grow back all of the hair you have lost.

There is not sufficient evidence that Propecia works in the treatment of receding hairline in the temporal area on both sides of the head. Male pattern hair loss occurs gradually over time.

On average, healthy hair grows only about half an inch each month. Therefore, it will take time to see any effect. You may need to take Propecia daily for 3 months or more before you see a benefit from taking it. Propecia can only work over the long term if you continue taking it.

If the drug has not worked for you in 12 months, further treatment is unlikely to be of benefit.

If you stop taking Propecia, you will likely lose the hair you have gained within 12 months of stopping treatment.