If you’ve heard the name finasteride, you probably wonder what it actually does. In plain terms, finasteride is a pill that blocks a hormone called DHT. DHT is the main cause of male‑pattern baldness and also makes the prostate grow larger. By lowering DHT, finasteride helps keep hair on your head and keeps the prostate from getting too big.
The drug comes in two common strengths. A 1 mg tablet (often sold as Propecia) is used for hair loss, while a 5 mg tablet (known as Proscar) treats an enlarged prostate, also called benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). Doctors decide which dose is right for you based on what you need.
Finasteride belongs to a group called 5‑alpha‑reductase inhibitors. Your body makes an enzyme called 5‑alpha‑reductase, and that enzyme turns testosterone into DHT. When you take finasteride, the enzyme gets blocked, so less DHT is made. With lower DHT levels, hair follicles that were shrinking can start to grow again, and the prostate stops swelling as fast.
The effect isn’t instant. Most men see a slowdown in hair loss within three months, and noticeable regrowth often appears after about six to twelve months. For prostate issues, relief from frequent urination or weak flow may show up in a few weeks, but full benefit can take a few months.
Finasteride is safe for most men, but it does have side effects. The most talked‑about ones involve sexual function – some people notice lower libido, trouble getting an erection, or a smaller amount of semen. These effects usually improve after stopping the drug, but they can linger for a few men.
Other possible reactions include breast tenderness, rash, or dizziness. Rarely, men report mood changes like depression. If any of these symptoms feel serious or don’t go away, call your doctor right away.
Women should never take finasteride. It can cause birth defects, so it’s also unsafe for anyone who might become pregnant. Men should keep the pills out of reach of children and store them at room temperature.
When you start finasteride, take it at the same time each day – with or without food doesn’t matter. If you miss a dose, just take the next one at the usual time; don’t double up. Don’t stop the medication abruptly without talking to your doctor, because the benefits can disappear quickly.
Finasteride can interact with other medicines, especially certain antifungals and antibiotics. Let your pharmacist or doctor know every drug you’re using, including over‑the‑counter supplements.
Regular check‑ups are a good idea. Your doctor may want to test your prostate‑specific antigen (PSA) levels, especially if you’re using the higher 5 mg dose. Blood work can also help spot any unexpected changes early.
Bottom line: finasteride is a simple, once‑daily pill that can slow hair loss and help an enlarged prostate, but it isn’t a magic bullet. Understanding how it works, the right dose for you, and the side effects to watch for will make the experience smoother. Always discuss your health history with a qualified professional before starting, and keep the conversation open if anything feels off.
A clear, up‑to‑date guide on Proscar: what it does, how to take it, common side effects, and how it stacks up against other BPH options.
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