Finasteride dosage, side effects

Finasteride dosage, side effects:

Finasteride is a medication primarily used to treat male pattern hair loss (androgenetic alopecia) and benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). It works by inhibiting the 5α-reductase enzyme, which converts testosterone into dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a hormone responsible for hair loss and prostate enlargement.

Brand Names of Finasteride

Finasteride is sold under various brand names worldwide, including:

1. For Hair Loss (1 mg dose)

Propecia (original brand by Merck)
Finpecia (India, Cipla)
Fincar (India, Dr. Reddy’s)
Finax (India, Dr. Reddy’s)
Proscar 1 mg (some countries)
Finasteride Generics (various manufacturers)

2. For BPH (5 mg dose)

Proscar (original brand by Merck)
Finast (various countries)
Fincar 5 mg (India)
Finasteride-5 (generic versions)

Key Facts About Finasteride

Mechanism of Action

Blocks Type II 5α-reductase, reducing DHT levels by ~70%.
Helps shrink the prostate (BPH) and slows hair loss.

Uses

Male Pattern Baldness (MPB) – 1 mg/day
Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) – 5 mg/day

Side Effects

Common: Decreased libido, erectile dysfunction, reduced semen volume.
Rare: Gynecomastia (breast enlargement), depression.
Post-Finasteride Syndrome (PFS): Controversial long-term sexual dysfunction (rare).

Contraindications

Not for women (especially pregnant women – risk of birth defects).
Not recommended for children.

Effectiveness

Hair Loss: Slows balding in ~90% of men, regrows hair in ~65%.
BPH: Reduces prostate size, improves urine flow.

Generic Availability

Widely available as a low-cost generic drug.

Conclusion

Finasteride is a well-studied drug for hair loss and BPH, sold under brands like Propecia, Proscar, Finpecia, and Finast. While effective, it may cause sexual side effects in some men. Always consult a doctor before use.