Finasteride
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Drug Status
Government Approvals
US(FDA), UK(BNF)
WHO Essential Medicine
NO
Known Teratogen
Possible
Pharmaceutical Class
5-alpha Reductase Inhibitor
Controlled Drug Substance
No
Finasteride
Summary
Finasteride is used to treat male pattern baldness, which is hair loss in men, and benign prostatic hyperplasia, which is an enlarged prostate. It helps slow hair thinning and promotes regrowth, while also reducing prostate size and improving urinary symptoms.
Finasteride works by inhibiting the enzyme 5-alpha reductase, which converts testosterone into dihydrotestosterone (DHT). DHT is a hormone that contributes to hair loss and prostate growth. By reducing DHT levels, Finasteride helps slow hair loss and shrink the prostate.
Finasteride is taken as a once-daily pill, with or without food. The typical dose for hair loss is 1 mg daily, while for benign prostatic hyperplasia, it's usually 5 mg daily. Always follow your doctor's specific dosing instructions.
Common side effects of Finasteride include decreased libido, which is a reduced interest in sexual activity, erectile dysfunction, which is the inability to maintain an erection, and ejaculation disorders. These occur in a small percentage of users.
Finasteride can cause birth defects, so women who are pregnant or may become pregnant should not handle crushed or broken tablets. It is also contraindicated in individuals with a known hypersensitivity to Finasteride or any of its components.
Indications and Purpose
How does Finasteride work?
Finasteride works by inhibiting the enzyme 5-alpha reductase, which converts testosterone into dihydrotestosterone (DHT). DHT is a hormone that contributes to hair loss and prostate growth. By reducing DHT levels, Finasteride helps slow hair loss and shrink the prostate. Think of it like turning down the volume on a radio; it reduces the "noise" of DHT in the body. This action helps treat male pattern baldness and benign prostatic hyperplasia, improving hair growth and urinary symptoms.
Is Finasteride effective?
Yes, Finasteride is effective for its approved uses. It is primarily used to treat male pattern baldness and benign prostatic hyperplasia, which is an enlarged prostate. Clinical studies show that Finasteride can significantly reduce hair loss and promote hair regrowth in men. It also helps reduce prostate size and improve urinary symptoms in men with an enlarged prostate. The effectiveness of Finasteride may vary among individuals, and it may take several months to see noticeable results. Always follow your doctor's instructions for the best outcomes.
What is Finasteride?
Finasteride is a medication used to treat male pattern baldness and benign prostatic hyperplasia, which is an enlarged prostate. It belongs to a class of drugs called 5-alpha reductase inhibitors, which work by reducing the levels of dihydrotestosterone (DHT) in the body. DHT is a hormone that contributes to hair loss and prostate growth. By lowering DHT levels, Finasteride helps reduce hair loss and improve urinary symptoms associated with an enlarged prostate. It is usually taken as a long-term treatment.
Directions for Use
For how long do I take Finasteride?
Finasteride is usually taken long-term for conditions like male pattern baldness and benign prostatic hyperplasia. For hair loss, you may need to take it indefinitely to maintain results. For prostate issues, your doctor will guide you on the duration based on your response to treatment. Stopping Finasteride can lead to a reversal of its effects. Always follow your doctor's instructions and discuss any concerns about the length of treatment with them.
How do I dispose of Finasteride?
To dispose of Finasteride, take it to a drug take-back program or collection site at a pharmacy or hospital. This ensures safe disposal without harming people or the environment. If a take-back program isn't available, you can throw it in the trash at home. First, remove it from its original container, mix it with something undesirable like used coffee grounds, seal the mixture in a plastic bag, and then throw it away. Always keep medications out of reach of children and pets.
How do I take Finasteride?
Take Finasteride as a once-daily pill, with or without food, at the same time each day. Swallow the tablet whole; do not crush or chew it. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember, unless it's close to your next dose. In that case, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not take two doses at once. There are no specific dietary restrictions, but always follow your doctor's advice. If you have questions about taking Finasteride, consult your healthcare provider for personalized guidance.
How long does it take for Finasteride to start working?
Finasteride may take three to six months to show noticeable results for hair loss. For benign prostatic hyperplasia, improvements in urinary symptoms may be observed within a few weeks, but full benefits can take several months. Individual factors like age, health, and the severity of the condition can affect how quickly you see results. Consistent use as prescribed by your doctor is important for achieving the best outcomes. If you have concerns about the effectiveness of Finasteride, discuss them with your healthcare provider.
How should I store Finasteride?
Store Finasteride at room temperature, away from moisture and light. Keep it in its original container, tightly closed, and out of reach of children and pets. Do not store it in the bathroom, where humidity can affect the medication. There is no need to refrigerate Finasteride. Always check the expiration date and properly dispose of any unused or expired medication. If you have questions about storage, consult your pharmacist or healthcare provider.
What is the usual dose of Finasteride?
The usual starting dose of Finasteride for adults is 1 mg or 5 mg once daily, depending on the condition being treated. For hair loss, the typical dose is 1 mg daily, while for benign prostatic hyperplasia, it's usually 5 mg daily. Always follow your doctor's specific dosing instructions. Dose adjustments may be necessary for special populations, such as the elderly. Do not change your dose without consulting your healthcare provider.
Warnings and Precautions
Can Finasteride be taken safely while breastfeeding?
Finasteride is not recommended while breastfeeding. There is limited information on whether Finasteride passes into human breast milk, but it is known to affect hormone levels, which could potentially impact a breastfed infant. The effects on milk supply are also unknown. If you are breastfeeding or planning to breastfeed, talk with your doctor about safer medication options. They can help you choose a treatment that allows you to nurse your baby safely.
Can Finasteride be taken safely while pregnant?
Finasteride is not safe to use during pregnancy. It can cause birth defects, particularly affecting the development of male genitalia in a male fetus. Pregnant women should not handle crushed or broken tablets, as the medication can be absorbed through the skin. There is limited evidence on the effects of Finasteride in pregnant women, but the risks are significant. If you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, avoid using Finasteride and consult your doctor for safer alternatives.
Can I take Finasteride with other prescription drugs?
Finasteride has no major drug interactions, but it can interact with certain medications. Moderate interactions may occur with drugs that affect liver enzymes, as they can alter Finasteride's effectiveness. Always inform your doctor about all medications you are taking, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements. This helps prevent interactions and ensures your treatment is safe and effective. Your doctor can provide guidance on managing any potential interactions.
Does Finasteride have adverse effects?
Adverse effects are unwanted reactions to a medication. Common adverse effects of Finasteride include decreased libido, erectile dysfunction, and ejaculation disorders. These occur in a small percentage of users. Serious side effects are rare but can include breast tenderness or enlargement and allergic reactions. If you experience any adverse effects, contact your doctor. They can help determine if the symptoms are related to Finasteride and suggest appropriate actions, such as adjusting the dose or switching medications.
Does Finasteride have any safety warnings?
Yes, Finasteride has important safety warnings. It can cause birth defects, so women who are pregnant or may become pregnant should not handle crushed or broken tablets. Finasteride can also affect PSA levels, which are used to screen for prostate cancer, potentially masking the presence of the disease. Not adhering to these warnings can lead to serious consequences, such as undetected prostate cancer or harm to a developing fetus. Always follow your doctor's advice and report any unusual symptoms.
Is Finasteride addictive?
Finasteride is not addictive or habit-forming. It does not cause dependency or withdrawal symptoms when you stop taking it. Finasteride works by affecting hormone levels in the body, specifically by reducing the conversion of testosterone to dihydrotestosterone (DHT), which is not related to addiction pathways in the brain. You won't experience cravings for this medication or feel compelled to take more than prescribed. If you have concerns about medication dependence, you can feel confident that Finasteride doesn't carry this risk.
Is Finasteride safe for the elderly?
Finasteride is generally safe for elderly patients, but they may be more vulnerable to side effects. The elderly are more sensitive to medications due to changes in metabolism and organ function. Finasteride can cause side effects like decreased libido and erectile dysfunction, which may be more pronounced in older adults. Regular monitoring by a healthcare provider is important to ensure safety and effectiveness. Always follow your doctor's advice and report any unusual symptoms.
Is it safe to drink alcohol while taking Finasteride?
There are no well-established interactions between Finasteride and alcohol. However, it's always best to consume alcohol in moderation. Drinking alcohol excessively can affect your overall health and may interfere with the effectiveness of medications. If you choose to drink, do so responsibly and be aware of any changes in how you feel. If you have concerns about alcohol use while taking Finasteride, talk with your doctor for personalized advice.
Is it safe to exercise while taking Finasteride?
Yes, it is safe to exercise while taking Finasteride. This medication does not typically limit exercise capacity or cause symptoms during physical activity. Regular exercise is beneficial for overall health and can complement your treatment. If you experience any unusual symptoms while exercising, such as dizziness or fatigue, slow down or stop and rest. Always consult your doctor if you have concerns about your exercise routine while taking Finasteride.
Is it safe to stop Finasteride?
Yes, it is generally safe to stop taking Finasteride, but you should consult your doctor first. Finasteride is often used long-term for conditions like hair loss or benign prostatic hyperplasia. Stopping it may lead to a reversal of its effects, such as hair loss resuming or prostate symptoms returning. There are no withdrawal symptoms associated with stopping Finasteride. Always discuss with your healthcare provider before making any changes to your medication regimen.
What are the most common side effects of Finasteride?
Side effects are unwanted reactions that can happen when taking a medication. Common side effects of Finasteride include decreased libido, erectile dysfunction, and ejaculation disorders. These side effects are not experienced by everyone and may be temporary. If you notice new symptoms after starting Finasteride, they might be unrelated to the medication. Always talk with your doctor before stopping any medication. They can help determine if the side effects are related to Finasteride and suggest appropriate actions.
Who should avoid taking Finasteride?
Finasteride has important contraindications. It should not be used by women, especially those who are or may become pregnant, due to the risk of birth defects. It is also contraindicated in individuals with a known hypersensitivity to Finasteride or any of its components. Caution is advised in patients with liver function impairment. Always consult your doctor before starting Finasteride to ensure it's safe for you, especially if you have any underlying health conditions.
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