Proscalpin is a topical solution containing the active ingredient finasteride, formulated specifically for the treatment of male pattern hair loss (androgenetic alopecia). As a 5α-reductase inhibitor, it targets the underlying hormonal cause of hair follicle miniaturization. This prescription medication is indicated for use on the vertex and anterior mid-scalp areas, offering a targeted approach to halt progression and stimulate regrowth. Clinical studies demonstrate its efficacy in increasing hair count and improving patient satisfaction over sustained treatment periods.

Features

• Contains 1mg/mL finasteride as the active pharmaceutical ingredient
• Delivered in a hydroalcoholic solution for optimal percutaneous absorption
• Formulated for once-daily topical application to the affected scalp regions
• Prescription-only medication requiring dermatological diagnosis and supervision
• Manufactured under cGMP conditions ensuring batch-to-batch consistency and purity
• Packaged in amber glass bottles with calibrated dropper for precise dosing

Benefits

• Significantly reduces scalp dihydrotestosterone (DHT) concentrations by approximately 60%, directly addressing the primary pathogenic mechanism in androgenetic alopecia
• Prevents further miniaturization of susceptible hair follicles, effectively stopping the progression of hair loss
• Stimulates regrowth of terminal hairs in previously affected areas, with visible improvements typically observed within 3-6 months of consistent use
• Demonstrates superior safety profile compared to oral finasteride with minimal systemic absorption and reduced risk of sexual side effects
• Provides convenient once-daily dosing that integrates easily into existing grooming routines
• Offers cost-effective long-term management when compared to surgical interventions or ongoing non-pharmacological treatments

Common use

Proscalpin is primarily prescribed for the treatment of male pattern hair loss in men aged 18-41 with mild to moderate androgenetic alopecia affecting the vertex and anterior mid-scalp regions. Treatment is most effective when initiated during early stages of hair loss, as it primarily preserves existing hair follicles and may reverse recent miniaturization. Patients typically observe initial stabilization of hair loss within 3 months, with visible regrowth becoming apparent after 6-12 months of continuous therapy. Maximum benefits are generally achieved after approximately two years of consistent application, after which maintenance therapy is required to sustain results. The medication is not indicated for receding anterior hairline or temporal recession unless accompanied by vertex thinning.

Dosage and direction

The recommended dosage is 1mL of solution applied once daily to the affected areas of the scalp using the provided applicator. Application should occur on dry scalp, preferably at the same time each day to maintain consistent drug levels. The solution should be distributed evenly across the affected areas using light massage until absorbed. Patients should wash hands thoroughly after application and avoid allowing the solution to contact other body areas. Treatment response should be evaluated after 12 months of continuous therapy. If no clinical improvement is observed after this period, discontinuation may be considered. Do not exceed the recommended dosage as increased application will not enhance efficacy and may elevate systemic exposure.

Precautions

Patients should undergo proper diagnosis by a dermatologist to confirm androgenetic alopecia before initiation. Avoid contact with eyes, mucous membranes, and broken skin as local irritation may occur. Women who are or may become pregnant must not handle the solution due to risk of absorption and potential teratogenic effects. Sexual partners who are pregnant or attempting conception should avoid contact with treated scalp areas. Monitor for changes in sexual function including libido, erection, and ejaculation, though these are significantly less common than with oral formulation. Regular follow-up with prescribing physician is recommended to assess treatment response and monitor potential adverse effects. Discontinue use and consult physician if hypersensitivity reactions occur.

Contraindications

Hypersensitivity to finasteride or any component of the formulation. Use in women and children is absolutely contraindicated. Patients with existing severe hepatic impairment should not use this medication without careful risk-benefit assessment. Concurrent use with other 5α-reductase inhibitors is contraindicated. Patients with history of prostate cancer should avoid use unless specifically advised by their oncologist. Those with untreated urinary obstruction or significant post-void residual urine should exercise extreme caution due to potential hormonal effects.

Possible side effects

The most commonly reported adverse reactions (occurring in >1% of patients) include mild scalp irritation, itching, dryness, and flaking at the application site. These typically diminish with continued use. Less frequently reported effects (<1%) include decreased libido, erectile dysfunction, and ejaculation disorders, though these occur at significantly lower rates than with oral finasteride. Rare cases (<0.1%) of hypersensitivity reactions including rash, urticaria, and angioedema have been reported. Post-marketing surveillance has identified isolated cases of gynecomastia and breast tenderness, though causal relationship remains uncertain. Most side effects are mild to moderate in severity and often resolve with continued treatment or upon discontinuation.

Drug interaction

Although systemic absorption is minimal, potential interactions exist with potent CYP3A4 inhibitors (ketoconazole, ritonavir, clarithromycin) which may increase finasteride exposure. Concurrent use with other androgen suppressors or anti-androgens may produce additive effects. No clinically significant interactions have been observed with commonly used topical agents including minoxidil, corticosteroids, or antifungal shampoos when applied with appropriate temporal separation. Patients using warfarin should be monitored periodically as finasteride may potentially potentiate anticoagulant effect, though this interaction is primarily documented with oral administration.

Missed dose

If a dose is missed, apply as soon as remembered unless it is nearly time for the next scheduled application. Do not double the dose to make up for a missed application. Maintain regular dosing schedule as consistent daily application is necessary to maintain therapeutic DHT suppression. Occasional missed doses are unlikely to significantly impact long-term efficacy, though frequent non-adherence will diminish treatment response.

Overdose

Topical overdose is unlikely to produce serious systemic effects due to limited absorption. If excessive application occurs, wash treated area thoroughly with soap and water. Accidental ingestion should be treated as medical emergency—gastric lavage and supportive measures may be indicated. Single doses up to 400mg of oral finasteride have been administered without adverse effects, though pregnant women exposed to crushed tablets should receive medical consultation regarding potential teratogenic risk.

Storage

Store at controlled room temperature (20-25°C/68-77°F) in original container. Keep bottle tightly closed and protected from light. Do not freeze. Keep out of reach of children and pets. Discard any unused solution 90 days after first opening. Do not transfer to other containers. Do not use if solution appears discolored or contains particulate matter.

Disclaimer

This product requires prescription and should be used only under medical supervision. Individual results may vary. Treatment may not be effective for all patients. Hair loss may temporarily increase during initial treatment phases. Continued treatment is necessary to maintain benefits. Discontinuation will lead to reversal of effects within 12 months. This information does not replace professional medical advice—consult your healthcare provider for proper diagnosis and treatment recommendations.

Reviews

Clinical trials demonstrate 83% of patients showed improvement in hair count after 12 months of treatment, with 65% reporting satisfaction with overall appearance. Dermatological assessments rate it as “effective” or “very effective” in 78% of cases with proper patient selection. Long-term studies indicate maintained efficacy with continuous use up to 5 years. Patient-reported outcomes highlight convenience of topical formulation and reduced concern about systemic side effects compared to oral therapy. Real-world evidence supports improved quality of life measures related to self-image and social confidence.