Varies case to case. From my early research into this from users testimonials i believe it does work in a small minority of people. Its much less effective than propecia and its certainly not side effect free. I once read that beta sisterol is maybe better than saw palmeto but i have not found enough evidence to support this claim. Maybe you could try that if your thinking of experimenting and if doesn't work a least you can look forward to the health benefits it brings.