Finasteride

Medically reviewed by Jessica Swirble, PharmD
Last updated on 4/20/2024

Drug Information | Side Effects | Use & Dosage | Request a Prescription

• Brand Name: Proscar (for BPH), Propecia (for male pattern baldness)
  
• Generic Name: Finasteride
  
• Uses: Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), male pattern baldness (androgenetic alopecia)
  
• Drug Class: 5-alpha-reductase inhibitor
  
• Availability: Prescription only
  
• Generic Status: Yes
  
• Controlled Substance: No
  
  

Finasteride is a medication classified as a 5-alpha-reductase inhibitor. It is primarily used to treat benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) and male pattern baldness (androgenetic alopecia).

Finasteride is used to treat conditions such as:

• Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH): A condition where the prostate gland enlarges and causes urinary problems in men
  
• Male pattern baldness (androgenetic alopecia): A common form of hair loss in men
  
  

It may also be prescribed for other medical conditions as determined by your healthcare provider.

Finasteride works by inhibiting the enzyme 5-alpha-reductase, which converts testosterone into dihydrotestosterone (DHT). DHT is involved in the development of BPH and male pattern baldness. By reducing DHT levels, finasteride helps shrink the prostate gland in BPH and promotes hair regrowth in male pattern baldness.

Finasteride is usually taken orally as a tablet, with or without food, as directed by your healthcare provider. The dosage and duration of treatment depend on the condition being treated and your response to the medication.

Follow the prescribed dosage and schedule strictly. Do not stop taking finasteride suddenly without consulting your healthcare provider, as it may affect the effectiveness of the treatment.

The time it takes to see noticeable results with finasteride can vary. Some men may experience improvements in symptoms of BPH, such as reduced urinary urgency and frequency, within a few weeks to months of starting treatment. For male pattern baldness, visible hair regrowth may take several months to a year of consistent use.

Continue taking finasteride as prescribed even if you do not see immediate results. Talk to your healthcare provider if you have any concerns or questions about your treatment progress.

While finasteride is primarily used for BPH and male pattern baldness, healthcare providers may sometimes prescribe it off-label for other conditions.

Discuss any alternative uses of finasteride with your healthcare provider.

Finasteride is available in the following dosage forms:

• Oral tablets: Available in various strengths (e.g., 1mg, 5mg)
  
  

Generic versions of finasteride are available under various brand names.

Finasteride is a prescription medication. You will need a valid prescription from a licensed healthcare provider to obtain this medication.