Therapeutic Indication:
● Finasteride is used to treat male pattern hair loss (Androgenetic Alopecia). It increases hair growth on the scalp and prevents further hair loss in men with mild to moderate hair loss (not complete baldness).
● Finasteride is also used to treat Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) in men with an enlarged prostate, improving urinary symptoms by reducing prostate size and potentially delaying the need for surgery
Mechanism of Action:
In male-pattern hair loss, DHT plays a key role by shortening hair growth cycles, causing hair to become finer, thinner, and eventually stop growing in affected areas. DHT also contributes to prostate enlargement in BPH. Finasteride works by inhibiting the enzyme 5α-reductase, which converts testosterone into DHT. By lowering DHT levels, finasteride helps prevent hair loss, promotes hair regrowth, and reduces BPH symptoms such as urinary issues.
Side Effects:
Like all medicines, finasteride may cause side effects in some individuals, though not everyone experiences them. Comon Side Effects :
● Reduced libido, erectile dysfunction
● Breast tenderness
When to Consult Your Doctor:
Stop taking finasteride and seek medical attention immediately if you experience:
● Signs of a severe allergic reaction (e.g., skin rash, itching, swelling of lips, face, tongue, or throat, which may cause difficulty breathing or swallowing).
● Feelings of depression with suicidal thoughts.
● Signs of Chest Cancer (e.g., Chest enlargement with pain, lumps, or discharge from the nipple).
Contraindications:
Do not take finasteride if you :
● Are allergic (hypersensitive) to finasteride or any other ingredients in this medicine.
● Are a woman (finasteride is not effective for women with hair loss).
● Are already taking finasteride or dutasteride for BPH.
Warning and Precautions :
Talk to your doctor or pharmacist before taking finasteride if :
● You are going to have a blood test for prostate cancer (PSA test), as finasteride may affect test results.