How is Finasteride dosed?
Finasteride is typically dosed at 1 mg per day, taken as a single dose. It is available under various brand names, such as Propecia and Proscar. The medicine must be taken consistently for at least six months to see the full benefits, and it may take up to a year for the full effect. It is important to follow the dosage instructions provided by your doctor and to not handle crushed or broken tablets if you are pregnant or may become pregnant, as finasteride can cause birth defects in male babies.
What is the dosage form of Finasteride?
The oral route dosage forms for finasteride are tablets. The brand names for finasteride are Propecia and Proscar. The dosage and usage depend on the medical condition being treated, such as benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) or male pattern hair loss. It is essential to follow your doctor's orders or the directions on the label and not change the dose unless advised by your doctor.
What medications are contraindication with Finasteride?
Women who are pregnant or may become pregnant should not use finasteride or handle the crushed or broken tablets due to the risk of birth defects in male babies.
How is Finasteride administered?
Finasteride is typically administered in the form of tablets. It is available only with a doctor's prescription and comes in various dosage strengths. The tablets should be taken as directed by your healthcare professional, usually once a day with or without food. It is important to follow the specific instructions provided by your doctor to ensure the safe and effective use of this medication.
What are common precautions when taking Finasteride?
Common precautions when taking finasteride include:
- Informing your doctor of any allergies you have, or if you have had any unusual or allergic reactions to this or other medications.
- Telling your healthcare professional if you have any other types of allergies, such as to foods, dyes, preservatives, or animals.
- Being cautious if you are pregnant or may become pregnant, as finasteride can cause birth defects in male babies. Women who are pregnant or may become pregnant should not handle crushed or broken tablets.
- Avoiding use in pediatric populations as safety and efficacy have not been established.
- Being aware that finasteride may affect the results of the prostate specific antigen (PSA) test, which may be used to detect prostate cancer. Make sure you tell all of your doctors that you are using this medicine.
- Being aware that some men who use finasteride may become infertile (unable to have children). Talk with your doctor before using this medicine if you plan to have children.
- Reporting any side effects to your doctor, including but not limited to: inability to have or keep an erection, loss in sexual ability, desire, drive, or performance, runny or stuffy nose, sleepiness or unusual drowsiness, sneezing, back pain, decreased amount of semen, diarrhea, dizziness, headache, stomach pain, and testicular pain. These are some of the common precautions to consider when taking finasteride. Always follow your healthcare provider's instructions and consult them if you have any questions or concerns.