Finasteride is a medication used to treat male pattern hair loss and benign prostatic hyperplasia. It works by decreasing the amount of the hormone dihydrotestosterone in the body, which helps to reverse the balding process in male pattern hair loss and reduce symptoms of an enlarged prostate.

Finasteride FAQ


What is Finasteride used for?

Finasteride is used to treat male pattern hair loss (androgenetic alopecia) in men and benign prostatic hyperplasia (enlarged prostate).

How long does it take for Finasteride to work?

For hair loss, it may take at least 3 months to see an effect. For prostate enlargement, it may take 6 months or more to see the full benefit.

What are the side effects of Finasteride?

Common side effects include decreased sexual ability, decreased amount of semen, dizziness, headache, and runny nose. Serious side effects are rare.

Can women use Finasteride?

No, women who are or may become pregnant should not handle crushed or broken tablets of Finasteride, as it can be absorbed through the skin and may cause birth defects.

Is a prescription required to buy Finasteride?

Yes, Finasteride is a prescription-only medication and should be used under the supervision of a healthcare professional.

What is the usual dosage of Finasteride?

The recommended dose for male pattern hair loss is 1 mg daily, and for benign prostatic hyperplasia, it is 5 mg daily.

Can Finasteride be used for hair loss in women?

No, Finasteride is not approved for use in women and may cause harm to an unborn baby if a woman is exposed to it during pregnancy.

How should I store Finasteride?

Store at room temperature away from light and moisture. Do not store in the bathroom. Keep all medications away from children and pets.

Should I stop taking Finasteride if I experience side effects?

It's important to discuss any side effects with your healthcare provider before stopping the medication, as they can provide guidance on the best course of action.

Are there any drug interactions with Finasteride?

Inform your doctor about all the medications you are taking, including prescription, over-the-counter, vitamins, and herbal supplements, to avoid potential interactions.

Can Finasteride reduce the risk of prostate cancer?

Some studies have suggested that Finasteride may reduce the risk of certain types of prostate cancer, but it is not approved for this use and should not be taken for this purpose without medical advice.

What should I do if I miss a dose of Finasteride?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is near the time of the next dose, skip the missed dose. Do not double the dose to catch up.

Can I cut or crush Finasteride tablets?

Do not crush or chew Finasteride tablets. If the tablet is crushed or broken, it should not be handled by women who are or may become pregnant due to the risk of potential harm to the unborn baby.

Is Finasteride covered by insurance?

Insurance coverage can vary, so it's best to check with your insurance provider to see if Finasteride is covered and what the out-of-pocket costs may be.

How long should I take Finasteride for hair loss?

To maintain the benefits, it is usually necessary to continue taking Finasteride indefinitely. Discontinuing the medication may lead to loss of hair regained during treatment.

Can I drink alcohol while taking Finasteride?

It is generally safe to drink alcohol in moderation while taking Finasteride, but it's important to consider individual health factors and consult a healthcare professional.

Releated topics

Connected topics