Finasteride
Description
Finasteride is a medicine used to treat urinary problems that occur when the pr
ostate 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
Q:
Can I take Finasteride during pregnancy?
A:
Finasteride is strictly not to be taken in pregnancy.
Breast Feeding
Q:
Can I take Finasteride while breastfeeding?
A:
Do not take this medicine if you are breast feeding.
Driving
Q:
Can I drive if I have consumed Finasteride?
A:
Finasteride does not affect your ability to drive.
Alcohol
Q:
Can I consume alcohol with Finasteride?
A:
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.
Dietary Restrictions
No information is available on dietary restrictions while you are taking Finasteride, consult your doctor or pharmacist for further information.
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.
Content Details
WRITTEN BY
Ravindra Ghongade
B. Pharm
REVIEWED BY
Dr. Nikita Toshi
BDS (Bachelor of Dental Surgery), WHO FIDES member
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Any precautions to take before I start the treatment?
A: 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.
Q: When and how to consume this medicine?
A: 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.
References
View All
- Webmed.finasteride. [Accessed 20.Nov.2025] (online)
- Mayoclinic.finasteride. [Accessed 20.Nov.2025] (online)
- Neon Healthcare Ltd. Finasteride 5 mg film-coated tablets: Package leaflet [Internet]. UK: Neon Healthcare Ltd.; [cited 2025 Nov 20].
- U.S. National Library of Medicine. Finasteride tablet [Internet]. DailyMed; [cited 2025 Nov 20].
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Disclaimer
The information provided herein is supplied to the best of our abilities to make it accurate and reliable as it is published after a review by a team of professionals. This information is solely intended to provide a general overview on the product and must be used for informational purposes only. You should not use the information provided herein to diagnose, prevent, or cure a health problem. Nothing contained on this page is intended to create a doctor-patient relationship, replace or be a substitute for a registered medical practitioner's medical treatment/advice or consultation. The absence of any information or warning to any medicine shall not be considered and assumed as an implied assurance. We highly recommend that you consult your registered medical practitioner for all queries or doubts related to your medical condition. You hereby agree that you shall not make any health or medical-related decision based in whole or in part on anything contained in the Site. Please click here for detailed T&C.
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