Finasteride

Uses

Finasteride is used in the treatment of benign prostatic hyperplasia which is a form of enlarged prostate, Finasteride is also used in small doses to treat male pattern baldness.

How it Works

Finasteride works by blocking the enzyme 5-alpha reductase. This enzyme converts the hormone testosterone to dihydrotestosterone. Dihydrotestosterone is the main reason behind the enlargement of the Prostate in men. Reduced amounts of dihydrotestosterone avoids enlargement of the prostate which directly works in the treatment of benign prostate hyperplasia (BPH). Finasteride also helps in the treatment of Male pattern baldness also known as androgenetic alopecia by blocking the body's production of the male hormone Dihydrotestosterone which directly helps in the increase of hair growth and reduces hair loss.

Common Side effects

Patients who take Finasteride may suffer from such side effects;

Decreased libido,
Impotence,
Inability to achieve or maintain an erection,
breast tenderness,
depressed mood,
allergic-type reactions

Warning

• Women who are or may become pregnant should not handle crushed or broken tablets.
  - Reductase inhibitors may increase the risk of high-grade prostate cancer .
  

Handling Precautions

Women and children should not use this medicine

Storage

Store at room temperature.

Introduction

Finasteride is for use in men only. Finasteride works in benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) by preventing the conversion of testosterone to dihydrotestosterone (DHT) in the body. DHT's main purpose is for the development of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). This also works for male pattern baldness as Decreasing the amount of DHT leads to increased hair regrowth and slower hair loss. Hair growth in other parts of the body is not affected by finasteride.

Composition

This drug contains the active ingredient finasteride. Finasteride has a molecular weight of 372.55. It is a white crystalline powder. Finasteride has a melting point of 250 degree Celsius. Among the inactive components of this drug are magnesium stearate, microcrystalline cellulose, lactose monohydrate, talc, titanium dioxide, and docusate sodium.

Use

Finasteride is used to shrink an enlarged prostate in benign prostatic hyperplasia or BPH in adult men. It can be used alone or taken in combination with other medications as per your doctor's advice to reduce symptoms of BPH.FInasteride is also used for the treatment of male pattern hair loss.

Dosage and administration

The dosage of this drug depends on the prescription of a doctor. However, it usually starts with the 1mg dosage, orally once a day and goes up to 5mg as per your doctor's advice.

Contraindication

Finasteride should not be taken by females or children in any case what so ever.

Important Precautions

A proper medical check-up should be done by a doctor before finasteride is prescribed to a patient. Women and children should not use this medicine. Finasteride can be absorbed through the skin therefore pregnant ladies should avoid any form of contact with this medicine. Finasteride can increase the risk of developing prostate cancer, therefore, precautions must be taken such as speaking to your doctor regarding this concern.

Side effects

Some of the side effects that can be caused by finasteride are such as impotence, loss of interest in sex, abnormal ejaculation, swelling in hands or feet, dizziness, nausea, weakness, headaches and cold sweats

Storage

Finasteride should be kept in the container and out of reach of children. It should be kept at room temperature and kept away from excess heat and moisture.