| name | Finasteride |
| classification | 5-alpha-reductase inhibitor |
| pharmacokinetics | Finasteride is well absorbed orally. Peak plasma concentrations are typically achieved within 1-2 hours. The drug is metabolized primarily by the liver, and the major metabolites are inactive. The half-life is approximately 6-8 hours, but the active drug accumulates in the prostate. |
| suggested dosage | 5 mg orally once daily (may vary based on individual needs) |
| indications | | 1 | Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH): reducing prostate size and relieving urinary symptoms. | | 2 | Male pattern hair loss (androgenetic alopecia): slowing hair loss and promoting hair growth. |
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| safety in pregnancy | | warning | ABSOLUTELY CONTRAINDICATED IN PREGNANT WOMEN. Finasteride is teratogenic in animal studies. Avoid any exposure during pregnancy, especially for women of childbearing potential. Use appropriate contraception. Stop the drug immediately if pregnancy occurs, and contact the prescribing physician. | | details | Females of childbearing potential should use appropriate contraception. Do not use in pregnant women or those who may become pregnant. If pregnancy occurs, discontinue immediately and contact your doctor. |
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| safety in breastfeeding | | warning | The excretion of finasteride in breast milk is unknown. Avoid use during breastfeeding. | | details | It is not known if finasteride is excreted in breast milk. It is best to avoid use during breastfeeding. |
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| side effects | | 1 | Decreased libido | | 2 | Erectile dysfunction | | 3 | Ejaculatory dysfunction | | 4 | Breast tenderness or enlargement | | 5 | Headache | | 6 | Dizziness | | 7 | General malaise | | 8 | Gynecomastia (rare) |
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| alternatives | | 1 | | | 2 | | name | Tamsulosin | | class | alpha-adrenergic antagonist | | notes | Treats BPH by relaxing smooth muscles in the prostate and bladder neck. Differs in mechanism from 5-alpha-reductase inhibitors. |
| | 3 | | name | Alfuzosin | | class | alpha-adrenergic antagonist | | notes | Similar to Tamsulosin. |
| | 4 | | name | Silodosin | | class | alpha-adrenergic antagonist | | notes | Similar to Tamsulosin and Alfuzosin. |
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| contraindications | | 1 | Known hypersensitivity to finasteride or other ingredients | | 2 | Pregnancy (ABSOLUTELY CONTRAINDICATED) |
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| interactions | | 1 | Not routinely significant with other medications. Concurrent use with medications affecting liver function may need monitoring. |
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| warnings and precautions | | 1 | Monitor patients for worsening urinary symptoms. | | 2 | Monitor patients for signs/symptoms of breast changes. | | 3 | Regular prostate exams are important for follow-up. | | 4 | Carefully monitor liver function in patients with pre-existing liver disease. |
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| additional information | | 1 | Finasteride is a prescription medication. Use only as prescribed by a healthcare professional. | | 2 | Discuss potential benefits and drawbacks with your physician. | | 3 | Finasteride may take several months to show full effectiveness. |
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| disclaimer | This information is for general knowledge only and does not constitute medical advice. Consult a healthcare professional for any health concerns or before making any decisions related to your health or treatment. |
