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Finasteride is a prescription medicine that lowers levels of dihydrotestosterone, or DHT. It is used for benign prostate enlargement and male pattern hair loss. Different tablet strengths are used for these conditions.
read more about finasteride ...Finasteride can reduce symptoms caused by an enlarged prostate and lower the chance of certain complications. It is also used to slow male pattern hair loss. Results develop gradually, so treatment is assessed over months rather than days.
Finasteride blocks an enzyme called 5-alpha reductase. This reduces the conversion of testosterone into DHT. Lower DHT levels can shrink an enlarged prostate and slow DHT-related hair loss.
Finasteride is taken by mouth once daily, with or without food. The prescribed strength depends on whether it is treating prostate enlargement or hair loss. Continued treatment is usually needed to maintain its effects.
Sexual side effects, including reduced sex drive or erection problems, can occur. Finasteride lowers prostate-specific antigen blood test results, which a clinician must consider when interpreting them. A person who is pregnant or could become pregnant should not handle crushed or broken tablets due to the risk to a developing male fetus.
No. The commonly prescribed tablet strengths differ. Use only the strength and schedule on your prescription.
Hair changes can take several months to become noticeable. Improvement in prostate symptoms can take six months or longer.
Yes. It lowers prostate-specific antigen levels. Tell the clinician ordering or interpreting the test that you take finasteride.
The benefit usually fades after treatment stops. Hair gained during treatment can be lost over the following months.
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