Important safety information For Oral Finasteride (Men)
Finasteride works by inhibiting an enzyme called 5-alpha-reductase, which converts testosterone into dihydrotestosterone (DHT). DHT is a hormone that contributes to hair loss by shrinking hair follicles, leading to thinner hair and eventually preventing hair growth. By reducing DHT levels, finasteride helps to slow down hair loss and, in some cases, promotes hair regrowth.
How should I use finasteride?
Typically, it takes daily use for three months or more to notice improvements in hair loss. If you don’t see any changes after three months, or if you have questions about altering or discontinuing the medication.
Who should not use finasteride?
- Pregnant Women : Pregnant women or those who may become pregnant should not
handle finasteride due to the risk of fetal harm. The medication can cause
birth defects in male fetuses if exposed during pregnancy. - Children : Finasteride is not recommended for use in children due to the lack
of safety and efficacy data in this age group - Individuals with Liver Disease: Those with severe liver conditions should
avoid finasteride, as it is metabolized by the liver and may exacerbate
liver issues. - People with Certain Allergies: Individuals who have had a severe allergic
reaction to finasteride or any of its components should not use it. - Patients with Prostate Cancer: Since finasteride can affect
prostate-specific antigen (PSA) levels, individuals with prostate cancer
should avoid it as it may mask the presence of prostate cancer.
What are the most common side effects of finasteride?
- Depression or Mood Changes
- Skin Rash or Itching
- Dizziness
- Breast Tenderness or Enlargement
What are the most serious side effects that I or a caregiver should monitor for when taking finasteride?
When taking finasteride, it’s important to monitor for several serious side effects, including:
- Breast Lump or Discharge: Any lumps, pain, or discharge from the breast
should be reported to a healthcare provider as they could indicate a rare
but serious condition such as breast cancer. - Severe Allergic Reactions: Watch for symptoms of an allergic reaction, such
as severe rash, itching, swelling of the face or throat, or difficulty
breathing. These could indicate a serious allergic response that requires
immediate medical attention. - Persistent Mood Changes or Depression: Significant changes in mood,
depression, or thoughts of self-harm should be addressed with a healthcare
provider as they could be linked to the medication.
This information is not comprehensive.