Generic Name: finasteride

View All Brands

A 5-alpha-reductase inhibitor - treats Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia and Androgenetic Alopecia

Licensed from

finasteride

Page: 1 2 Next >

(fih NAH steh ride)

Most Important What is...? Before Taking How to Take Missed Dose Avoid Taking Side Effects Interactions Overdose More Info

What is the most important information I should know about finasteride?

Before taking finasteride, tell your doctor if you have ever had an allergic reaction to this medication, or to a similar medicine called dutasteride (Avodart). Finasteride should never be taken by a woman or a child. Finasteride can be absorbed through the skin, and women or children should not be permitted to handle finasteride tablets. Although finasteride is not for use by women, this medication can cause birth defects if a woman is exposed to it during pregnancy. Finasteride tablets should not be handled by a woman who is pregnant or who may become pregnant. If a woman accidentally comes into contact with this medication from a broken or crushed tablet, wash the area with soap and water right away. Call your doctor at once if you notice any breast lumps, pain, nipple discharge, or other breast changes. These may be signs of male breast cancer.

What is finasteride?

Finasteride prevents the conversion of testosterone to dihydrotestosterone (DHT) in the body. DHT is involved in the development of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH).

Finasteride is used to treat symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) in men with an enlarged prostate.

Finasteride may also be used for other purposes not listed in this medication guide.

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking finasteride?

Before taking finasteride, tell your doctor if you have ever had an allergic reaction to this medication, or to a similar medicine called dutasteride (Avodart). Also tell your doctor if you have:

liver disease, or abnormal liver enzyme tests;
prostate cancer;
a bladder muscle disorder;
stricture of your urethra; or
if you are unable to urinate.

Finasteride should never be taken by a woman or a child. Finasteride can be absorbed through the skin, and women or children should not be permitted to handle finasteride tablets. Although finasteride is not for use by women, this medication can cause birth defects if a woman is exposed to it during pregnancy. Finasteride tablets should not be handled by a woman who is pregnant or who may become pregnant. If a woman accidentally comes into contact with this medication from a broken or crushed tablet, wash the area with soap and water right away.

How should I take finasteride?

Take this medication exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not take it in larger amounts or for longer than recommended. Follow the directions on your prescription label.

Take this medicine with a full glass of water.

Finasteride can be taken with or without food.

To be sure this medication is helping your condition, your blood will need to be tested on a regular basis. Your doctor will also test your prostate specific antigen (PSA) to check for prostate cancer. Do not miss any scheduled appointments.

It is important to use finasteride regularly to get the most benefit. Get your prescription refilled before you run out of medicine completely.

Store this medication at room temperature away from moisture, heat, and light. Keep the bottle tightly closed when not in use.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, wait until then to take the medicine and skip the missed dose. Do not take extra medicine to make up the missed dose.

What happens if I overdose?

Seek emergency medical attention if you think you have used too much of this medicine. An overdose of finasteride is not expected to produce life-threatening symptoms.

Page: 1 2 Next >

Media Gallery