Finasteride

What is finasteride?

Finasteride is a prescription medication used to treat male pattern hair loss and an enlarged prostate. It works by lowering levels of a hormone called DHT, which can shrink hair follicles and cause prostate growth[1]. 

What is finasteride used to treat?

Finasteride is widely used to treat a condition called benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), a common condition in men particularly as they get older which can affect the emptying of the bladder. Through a private prescriber, finasteride can also be used to treat male pattern hair loss[1]. 

Who can take finasteride?

 Finasteride is licensed to be used in most men over the age of 18; however, it may not be suitable for everyone[1]: 

• have had an allergic reaction to finasteride or another medication 

• have severe bladder problems 

• have liver problems 

Always read the patient information leaflet for a full list of people finasteride may not be suitable for. Tell your healthcare professional if any apply to you before starting finasteride[2]. 

How do you take finasteride?

Finasteride is taken once daily, ideally at the same time each day to maintain consistency. The tablets should be swallowed whole with water, unless your doctor advises otherwise. If you are administering the medicine to someone else and are a woman who is or could become pregnant, you should avoid handling the tablets directly and wear gloves, as the active ingredient can be absorbed through the skin[1]. 

What is the dosage of finasteride?

The dose of finasteride is determined by its indication. Usually, for BPH the dose of finasteride is 5mg and for the treatment of male pattern hair loss, the dose is 1mg daily. Finasteride only should be taken as prescribed[1]. 

Can you stop taking finasteride?

Finasteride can be stopped without risk of withdrawal symptoms, however condition it was treating is likely to return. If you were taking it for hair loss, this may resume around 6 months after your last dose. It is strongly recommended that you speak to your prescriber before stopping treatment[1]. 

What do you do if you take too much finasteride?

Taking too much finasteride is unlikely to cause harm. However, if you take more than your prescribed dose and feel unwell, contact your pharmacist or NHS 111 for advice[1]. 

What do you do if you forget to take finasteride?

Never take two doses of finasteride at the same time. If you do forget to take your dose, take it as soon as you remember unless it is close to your next dose. In that case, skip the missed dose and continue with your usual schedule[1]. 

What are the side effects of finasteride?

Common side effects of finasteride include[1]: 

• A reduced sex drive (low libido) 

• Difficulty getting or maintaining an erection (erectile dysfunction) 

• Problems with ejaculation 

Rare but more serious side effects include[1]: 

• Male breast tenderness or enlargement  

• Skin rash 

• Depression or changes in mood 

• Male breast cancer (very rare)

Effects on fertility, erectile dysfunction and low libido usually return to normal a couple months after stopping the medication. 

If you experience any side effects, including those not listed, you are encouraged to report them via the Yellow Card Scheme or contact your doctor, pharmacist, or nurse. This information is intended as a summary for general awareness and does not replace professional medical advice. 

The information provided in the side effects section is not a comprehensive list of all possible side effects associated with this medication. For a complete list of side effects, please refer to the Patient Information Leaflet (PIL) provided with your medication or consult your healthcare professional[2]. 

Medicines you can’t take with finasteride

Finasteride is not usually affected by other medicines.  

However, always inform your doctor or pharmacist about all medications and supplements you take before you start a new medicine, and follow the instructions in the Patient Information Leaflet[2]. 

Frequently asked questions about co-amoxiclav

How long does it take to see results? 

If you are taking finasteride for hair loss, it may take three to six months to notice visible regrowth. For an enlarged prostate, symptom improvement may take six to twelve months[1]. 

Can women use finasteride for hair loss? 

Finasteride is not approved for the use in women[1]. It may cause harm to an unborn baby, so women who are pregnant or of childbearing potential should avoid handling crushed or broken tablets, as the active ingredient can be absorbed through the skin. 

Can I drink alcohol while taking finasteride? 

You can drink alcohol while taking finasteride, but it’s recommended to do so in moderation[1]. 

Do I need to use contraception while taking finasteride? 

Yes. Although only very small amounts of finasteride may be present in your semen, the manufacturer recommends using a condom if your partner is pregnant or could become pregnant, as a precaution to avoid any risk to the unborn baby[1]. 

For the official NHS guide to finasteride, visit their website.