Finasteride

Uses	Hair Loss, Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia
Therapy	Drugs For Alopecia
Side Effects	Reduced Sex Drive, Unable to Get an Erection, Sexual Problems

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Molecule Description

Finasteride is a medicine used to treat urinary problems that occur when the prostate gland becomes enlarged in men, a condition known as benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). It works by blocking an enzyme that converts testosterone into a stronger form that causes the prostate to grow. By reducing this hormone, Finasteride helps shrink the prostate over time. As the prostate becomes smaller, symptoms like frequent urination, weak urine flow, difficulty starting urination, or waking up often at night to pass urine gradually improve. It may take a few months to feel the full benefits, so regular use as prescribed is important. If you notice any unusual side effects or changes, inform your doctor for proper guidance.

Uses

Finasteride is used in urinary problems caused by the prostate gland in males and associated symptoms such as difficulty in urination, drop by drop urination and increased frequency of urination
Also used in male pattern baldness

Contraindications

When should one not use Finasteride

If you are pregnant or breastfeeding
If you are allergic to Finasteride

Side effects

Common side effects of this drug are:

Ejaculation problems such as a decrease in the amount of semen released during sex
Impotence (an inability to have an erection)
Less sexual desire
Testicular pain, feeling your heartbeat
Raised liver enzymes
Allergic reaction-skin rashes, itching, swelling of face, lips, tongue or throat, swallowing and breathing difficulties - seek emergency medical help immediately
Breast problems like lumps, pain, enlargement, or nipple discharge. If you notice any of these immediately inform your doctor

Precautions and Warnings

Pregnancy

Finasteride is strictly not to be taken in pregnancy.

Breast Feeding

Do not take this medicine if you are breast feeding.

Driving

Finasteride does not affect your ability to drive.

Alcohol

No information available to on interaction between alcohol and Finasteride

Other General Warnings

Talk to your doctor if

You notice in the breasts - lumps, pain, breast enlargement or nipple discharge
You are getting reduced urinary flow
You have any liver disease
You are taking Finasteride, you should use a condom or other barrier method of contraception. Finasteride can pass into your semen and may affect the baby/ foetus if you conceive with partner during pregnancy
You are planning to do a blood test called prostate-specific antigen (PSA). Finasteride can affect the results of this test
Mood changes like depressed mood, depression, and less frequently, suicidal thoughts have also been reported in patients treated with Finasteride. Immediately inform your doctor if you experience these

Mode of Action

How Does It Work?

The prostate gland is present only in men. A swollen prostate gland can lead to a condition called ‘benign prostatic hyperplasia.’ This compresses the tube through which urine passes out. Finasteride works by reducing the amount of dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a male hormone in the body. This makes the prostate gland smaller, which helps in relieving urinary problems.

Interactions

Interactions with other medicines

Finasteride does not interact with most other medicines but inform your doctor regarding the medications taking previously or while starting treatment.

Interactions with food items

If you have any allergy from food, consult with your doctor.

Dosage

Overdose

In the case of a recent episode of overdose, symptomatic treatment of drug overdose is given. Chronic overdose may lead to symptoms like painful breasts, enlarged breasts, sore nipples and exaggerated side-effects. Seek emergency medical attention immediately.

Missed a Dose

If you missed any dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is time for the next dose, then skip the missed dose. Do not take extra medicine to compensate for the missed dose.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

For women, inform your doctor if you pregnant or planning a pregnancy. Finasteride must be stopped well in advance before planning a pregnancy. Regular liver function tests are must while on treatment with Finasteride. Do not donate blood for 1 month from the last dose as there are chances of transfusion to pregnant woman.

Finasteride is prescribed mostly in men and very rarely in women for specific conditions. It is better to read all the instructions on the package before you start taking the medication and acquaint yourself with the probable side effects. Take Finasteride exactly as per directions of your doctor. Swallow the tablet whole with water.

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