Finasteride Uses, Dosage, and Side Effects for Hair Loss & Prostate

Summary of Key Points

Finasteride is a prescription medication commonly used to treat conditions such as benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) and male pattern baldness. It works by lowering levels of dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a hormone linked to hair loss and prostate enlargement. While most patients tolerate Finasteride well, some may experience side effects. Always consult your healthcare provider before starting or adjusting your dosage. You can also reach out to one of our telemedicine providers for more personalized information.

Names of Medication

US Brand Name: Propecia (Finasteride)

US Brand Name: Proscar (Finasteride)

The generic name, listed in parentheses, refers to the active ingredient in the medication. It is chemically identical to the brand-name version but is often more affordable.

Pharmacologic Category

5-alpha reductase inhibitors

Other medications in this category include Dutasteride (Avodart), which is also used to treat conditions like benign prostatic hyperplasia.

Finasteride Dosage

Finasteride is prescribed for various conditions, and the dosage will depend on the specific condition being treated. Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions and consult them before making any changes to your dose. You can also schedule a telemedicine appointment with one of our providers for individualized advice.

Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH)

Recommended dose: 5 mg once daily

Duration: Long-term treatment, as prescribed by your doctor

Male Pattern Baldness (Androgenetic Alopecia)

Recommended dose: 1 mg once daily

Duration: Treatment may take 3 to 6 months to show results; long-term use may be necessary to maintain hair growth

Prostate Cancer (Off-label use)

Recommended dose: 5 mg once daily

Duration: As directed by your healthcare provider

Hormonal Imbalance

Recommended dose: 1 mg to 5 mg once daily

Duration: As directed by your healthcare provider

Scalp Hair Loss

Recommended dose: 1 mg once daily

Duration: Long-term use may be required to maintain results

Hirsutism (Excess Hair Growth in Women)

Recommended dose: 2.5 mg to 5 mg once daily

Duration: As directed by your healthcare provider

Acne (Off-label use)

Recommended dose: 1 mg to 5 mg once daily

Duration: As directed by your healthcare provider

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)

Recommended dose: 2.5 mg to 5 mg once daily

Duration: As directed by your healthcare provider

Ovarian Cancer (Off-label use)

Recommended dose: 5 mg once daily

Duration: As directed by your healthcare provider

Dosage Forms and Strengths

Tablet, Oral: 1 mg

Tablet, Oral: 5 mg

Administration Instructions for Finasteride

Finasteride should be taken orally, 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, but avoid taking two doses at once. Women who are pregnant or may become pregnant should not handle crushed or broken tablets, as the medication can be absorbed through the skin and may harm an unborn baby.

Contraindications of Finasteride

A contraindication is a specific situation or condition where a medication should not be used because it may cause harm. For Finasteride, there are several important contraindications:

Pregnancy: Finasteride is contraindicated in pregnant women or women who may become pregnant. The medication can cause birth defects, particularly affecting the development of male genitalia in a male fetus. Even handling crushed or broken tablets can be dangerous for pregnant women.

Hypersensitivity: If you have a known allergy or hypersensitivity to Finasteride or any of its components, you should not take this medication. Allergic reactions may include rash, itching, swelling, or difficulty breathing.

Children: Finasteride is not approved for use in children. The safety and effectiveness of this medication in pediatric patients have not been established.

Drug Interactions with Finasteride

Finasteride may interact with other medications, potentially reducing its effectiveness or increasing the risk of side effects. It’s important to inform your healthcare provider about all medications you are taking, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements. Some known drug interactions include:

St. John’s Wort (Hypericum perforatum): This herbal supplement can reduce the effectiveness of Finasteride by increasing the drug’s metabolism in the liver.

Anticholinergics (e.g., Benadryl [diphenhydramine]): These medications may reduce the effectiveness of Finasteride in treating benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) by affecting bladder function.

Testosterone supplements: Taking testosterone or other androgenic hormones may counteract the effects of Finasteride, as the medication works by reducing the conversion of testosterone to dihydrotestosterone (DHT).

Finasteride and Pregnancy

Is it safe to take Finasteride when pregnant?

No, Finasteride is not safe to take during pregnancy. It is strictly contraindicated for women who are pregnant or may become pregnant. Finasteride can cause serious birth defects, particularly in male fetuses, by interfering with the development of male genitalia. Pregnant women should avoid even handling broken or crushed Finasteride tablets, as the medication can be absorbed through the skin.

Finasteride While Breastfeeding

Is it safe to take Finasteride while breastfeeding?

Finasteride is generally not recommended for use during breastfeeding. Although there is limited data on whether Finasteride passes into breast milk, the potential risk to a nursing infant cannot be completely ruled out. If you are breastfeeding, it is important to consult your healthcare provider to discuss alternative treatment options that may be safer for both you and your baby.

Estimated Cost of Finasteride

The cost of Finasteride can vary depending on the pharmacy and your insurance coverage. Without insurance, a 30-day supply of Finasteride (1 mg or 5 mg) typically costs between $10 and $20 when using a GoodRx coupon. Prices may fluctuate, so it’s a good idea to check with your local pharmacy or use a discount service like GoodRx to find the most affordable option.

Possible Alternatives to Finasteride

Depending on the condition being treated, there may be alternative medications or lifestyle changes that could be effective. Always consult your healthcare provider or one of our telemedicine specialists before making any changes to your treatment plan.

Finasteride Alternatives for Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH)

1. Alpha-blockers (e.g., Flomax [tamsulosin]): These medications help relax the muscles in the prostate and bladder neck, making it easier to urinate.
2. 5-alpha-reductase inhibitors (e.g., Avodart [dutasteride]): Similar to Finasteride, these drugs work by reducing the size of the prostate by blocking the conversion of testosterone to DHT.
3. Lifestyle changes: Reducing caffeine and alcohol intake, along with practicing bladder training, can help alleviate BPH symptoms.

Finasteride Alternatives for Male Pattern Baldness

1. Minoxidil (e.g., Rogaine): A topical treatment applied to the scalp to stimulate hair growth.
2. Hair transplant surgery: Surgical procedures can be considered to restore hair in areas affected by male pattern baldness.
3. Low-level laser therapy: A non-invasive treatment that may promote hair growth by stimulating hair follicles.

Finasteride Alternatives for Prostate Cancer

1. Watchful waiting or active surveillance: In cases of early-stage prostate cancer, immediate treatment may not be necessary, but regular monitoring is essential.
2. Radiation therapy: High-energy rays are used to target and destroy cancer cells.
3. Hormone therapy: Medications that lower testosterone levels can help slow the growth of prostate cancer.

Finasteride Alternatives for Hormonal Imbalance

1. Hormone replacement therapy (HRT): Depending on the specific imbalance, hormone therapy may help restore normal hormone levels.
2. Lifestyle changes: Adjustments to diet, exercise, and stress management can naturally help balance hormones.

Finasteride Alternatives for Scalp Hair Loss

1. Minoxidil (e.g., Rogaine): An over-the-counter topical solution that stimulates hair growth on the scalp.
2. Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy: This treatment involves injecting a concentration of your own platelets into the scalp to encourage hair growth.

Finasteride Alternatives for Androgenetic Alopecia

1. Minoxidil (e.g., Rogaine): Often used in combination with Finasteride to promote hair growth.
2. Hair transplant surgery: A surgical option for more advanced cases of androgenetic alopecia.

Finasteride Alternatives for Hirsutism

1. Spironolactone (e.g., Aldactone): This medication helps reduce excessive hair growth by blocking androgen receptors.
2. Laser hair removal: A long-term solution for reducing unwanted hair growth.

Finasteride Alternatives for Acne

1. Topical retinoids (e.g., Retin-A [tretinoin]): These medications help unclog pores and reduce acne breakouts.
2. Oral contraceptives: For women, certain birth control pills can help regulate hormones and reduce acne.

Finasteride Alternatives for Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)

1. Metformin (e.g., Glucophage): This medication helps regulate insulin levels, which may improve PCOS symptoms.
2. Oral contraceptives: Birth control pills can help regulate menstrual cycles and lower androgen levels in women with PCOS.
3. Lifestyle changes: Weight loss, regular exercise, and a balanced diet can help manage PCOS symptoms.

Finasteride Alternatives for Ovarian Cancer

1. Surgery: Ovarian cancer is often treated with surgery to remove the tumor.
2. Chemotherapy: Medications are used to kill cancer cells, often following surgery.

Recent Updates on Finasteride Research

Recent studies have explored the long-term safety of Finasteride, particularly for conditions like male pattern baldness and benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). Some research has suggested a potential link between Finasteride and an increased risk of depression or sexual side effects, though these findings remain under debate. Ongoing studies are investigating whether lower doses of Finasteride could reduce these risks while still providing therapeutic benefits.

Another area of research is focused on Finasteride’s potential role in preventing prostate cancer. While some studies suggest that Finasteride may reduce the overall risk of prostate cancer, there are concerns that it could increase the likelihood of developing more aggressive forms of the disease. Further research is needed to fully understand these risks and benefits.

If you have concerns about the latest research on Finasteride, we encourage you to discuss them with one of our telemedicine providers. They can help you navigate the findings and determine how they may impact your treatment plan.

James Kingsley

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