Finasteride is a medication used to treat benign prostatic hypertrophy (BPH), also known as an enlarged prostate, and male pattern hair loss. It is in a class of medications called 5-alpha reductase inhibitors, which work by blocking the bodys production of a male hormone that causes the prostate to enlarge. Finasteride can reduce the symptoms of BPH, such as frequent and difficult urination, and may reduce the chance of acute urinary retention (sudden inability to urinate) . It may also decrease the chance that prostate surgery will be needed. For men with hair loss, finasteride will increase the number of scalp hairs but will not increase the amount of body hair.
It is important to note that women who are pregnant or may become pregnant should not use finasteride or handle the crushed or broken tablets, as it can cause birth defects in male babies. Finasteride is not approved for prevention of prostate cancer and may slightly increase the risk of developing a very serious form of prostate cancer. Women and children should not use this medication.
Common side effects of finasteride include decreased sex drive, difficulty achieving an erection, and decreased semen volume. Less common side effects include breast tenderness and enlargement, allergic reactions, and depression. If you experience any side effects while taking finasteride, it is important to talk to your doctor.
