Finasteride

Product Overview

Finasteride is a prescription medication used to treat conditions related to dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a hormone derived from testosterone.

Finasteride works by reducing the body’s production of DHT, which plays a key role in:

• Male pattern hair loss (androgenetic alopecia)
• Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) – enlarged prostate

At Angel Pharmacy, Finasteride is supplied as commercially manufactured tablets in:

• 1mg tablets – typically prescribed for hair loss
• 5mg tablets – typically prescribed for prostate enlargement

Your doctor will determine the correct strength and duration of treatment.

How Finasteride Works

Finasteride is a 5-alpha reductase inhibitor.

It blocks the enzyme responsible for converting testosterone into dihydrotestosterone (DHT). Elevated DHT levels can:

• Shrink hair follicles (leading to hair thinning and loss)
• Contribute to prostate enlargement

By lowering DHT levels, Finasteride:

• Helps slow or reverse hair loss in men
• Reduces prostate size
• Improves urinary symptoms related to BPH

What It Is Prescribed For

1mg Tablets – Male Pattern Hair Loss

Finasteride 1mg is commonly prescribed to:

• Slow progression of hair thinning
• Support regrowth in some men
• Maintain existing hair density

Results may take 3–6 months to become noticeable.

It is most effective when started early in the hair loss process.

5mg Tablets – Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH)

Finasteride 5mg is prescribed to:

• Reduce enlarged prostate size
• Improve urinary flow
• Decrease urinary frequency
• Reduce risk of urinary retention
• Lower the likelihood of prostate surgery

Symptom improvement may take several months.

Directions for Use

Take exactly as prescribed by your doctor.

General guidance:

• Take once daily
• Swallow whole with water
• Can be taken with or without food
• Take at the same time each day

Do not exceed prescribed dosage.

For hair loss, continued use is required to maintain results. Stopping treatment may lead to reversal of benefits within several months.

Important Safety Information

Before starting Finasteride, inform your doctor if you:

• Have liver disease
• Are planning a family
• Have a history of prostate cancer
• Experience breast tissue changes

Finasteride can affect PSA (Prostate-Specific Antigen) blood test results. Always inform your doctor you are taking Finasteride before PSA testing.

Possible Side Effects

Most men tolerate Finasteride well. However, potential side effects may include:

• Reduced libido
• Erectile dysfunction
• Decreased ejaculate volume
• Breast tenderness or enlargement
• Mood changes

Rarely:

• Depression
• Allergic reactions
• Persistent sexual side effects (uncommon but reported)

If you notice breast lumps, nipple discharge, or severe mood changes, seek medical attention.

Fertility Considerations

Finasteride may affect sperm parameters in some men. If you are actively trying to conceive, discuss this with your healthcare provider.

Women who are pregnant or may become pregnant must not handle crushed or broken Finasteride tablets due to potential risk to a male fetus.

Drug Interactions

Finasteride has few significant drug interactions but always inform your healthcare provider about:

• Prescription medications
• Over-the-counter medicines
• Herbal supplements

Who Should Not Use Finasteride

• Women (particularly during pregnancy)
• Children
• Individuals allergic to Finasteride
• Patients without medical supervision

Finasteride for hair loss is approved only for men.

Storage Instructions

• Store below 25°C
• Keep in original packaging
• Protect from moisture
• Keep out of reach of children
• Do not use after expiry date

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does Finasteride take to work for hair loss?

Most men see results after 3–6 months. Maximum benefit may take up to 12 months.

Will I lose hair if I stop taking it?

Yes. Hair maintenance depends on continued use. Stopping treatment typically results in gradual reversal of benefits.

Does Finasteride increase testosterone?

It may slightly increase circulating testosterone levels because less is converted to DHT.

Can women take Finasteride?

It is not approved for use in women, particularly those who are pregnant or may become pregnant.

Is 1mg different from 5mg?

Yes.
1mg is typically prescribed for hair loss.
5mg is prescribed for prostate enlargement.

Disclaimer

This information is provided for educational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice. Finasteride should only be used under the supervision of a qualified healthcare provider.

For personalised advice regarding your prescription, speak with the pharmacists at Angel Pharmacy.