Dry scalp from just finasteride?

[Marvin]

I have been taking generic finasteride (from Quality RX) since April 2009. I had a few of the less annoying side effects, but nothing major.

 

Last month, however, I started to have heavy dandruff. I started using Head and Shoulders as my primary shampoo, and to a large extent the dandruff went away (slowly). However my scalp still feels dry.

 

As a long time poster here, I know that minoxidil can cause this problem. But this is one of many reasons that I don't use minoxidil! Can this be a side effect of just the fin, or is something else causing this?

[Bill - Seemiller]

Marvin,

 

I assume you're taking oral, not topical finasteride right?

 

I've never heard of oral finasteride causing scalp conditions. And given that the dandruff only just started last month and you've been on finasteride since April, that further solidifies my thinking that something else is causing this.

 

If Head and Shoulders isn't working, you could consider a stronger shampoo such as Nizoral a couple times a week. However, you may want to consult with a dermatologist who may recommend other treatments to help eliminate it.

 

All the Best,

 

Bill

[carandal]

I started finasteride two weeks ago. It is possible that the dryness i have been experiencing is from that. It is really helping. I hope this can be resolved because it is not a good environment for hair groth when your scalp is dry. It seems to go from oily to dry. And I am getting exzema also. I fi don;'t take this I may go bald. This is tough situation

Marvin