Finasteride

Dosage

1 mg orally once a day. May be taken with or without food.

Important Information

Daily use for 3 months or more is necessary before benefit is observed. Continued use is recommended to sustain benefit. Withdrawal of treatment leads to reversal of effect within 12 months.

Although finasteride is not for use by women, this medicine can cause birth defects if a woman is exposed to it during pregnancy. Finasteride tablets should not be handled by a woman who is pregnant or who may become pregnant. If a woman accidentally comes in contact with a broken or crushed tablet, wash the area with soap and water right away.

Before Taking this Medicine

You should not use finasteride if you are allergic to it. Finasteride should never be taken by a woman or a child. Finasteride can be absorbed through the skin, and women or children should not be permitted to handle finasteride tablets. Using finasteride may increase your risk of developing prostate cancer. Talk with your doctor if you have concerns about this risk. Tell your doctor if you have ever had any of the following:

liver disease, or abnormal liver function tests
prostate cancer
a bladder muscle disorder
stricture of your urethra
urination problems
an allergic reaction to a similar medicine called dutasteride (Avodart)

Finasteride Side Effects

Common side effects may include:

loss of interest in sex
impotence
trouble having an orgasm
abnormal ejaculation

The sexual side effects of finasteride may continue after you stop taking finasteride. Talk to your doctor if you have concerns about these side effects.

Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat. Call your doctor at once if you notice any signs of male breast cancer such as:

breast lumps
breast pain or tenderness
nipple discharge
any other breast changes

Your credit card will be billed once your prescription is approved by a physician.