Could Finasteride be the answer for your enlarged prostate symptoms? This video will
break down all the important questions you may have about this medication.
Finasteride is used to help treat men with Benign Prostatic Hypertrophy,
BPH, and male pattern hair loss.
Finasteride works by preventing the conversion of
male hormone testosterone into its more potent form 5 DHT. Finasteride’s effect
of reducing 5 DHT, decreases the size of your prostate and promotes hair growth.
Is there anyone who should not take Finasteride?
It is best to speak with your doctor before taking
this medication if you have any of the following conditions:
• You have experienced a prior allergic reaction to Finasteride.
• Patients with a history of liver disease • Your partner is pregnant,
or you are actively trying for a baby o Finasteride is present in the mans semen
• Finasteride shouldn’t be used in pregnant or breastfeeding women
o This medication can have an impact on a baby’s development
o Occasionally this medication may be used off license in women, e.g. female pattern hair loss.
What is the correct dose of Finasteride?
Finasteride is available in both 1 mg and 5 mg tablets.
The dose you are prescribed will be dependant on your indication.
For patients with BPH the typical dose of Finasteride
is 5mg. For Male pattern hair loss the dose is lower at 1mg per day.
After a 3 months, your doctor, will evaluate your response to treatment,
and consider an appropriate dose adjustment.
How to take Finasteride
Take your Finasteride at the same time everyday. Take this
medication with or without food, but always with a glass of water.
How long does it take for Finasteride to work?
It may take several months of regular use before you notice any benefit to taking your Finasteride.
This is true for patients taking the medication for both BPH and Male Pattern Hair loss.
Are there any foods I should avoid?
There are no foods you need to avoid whilst taking Finasteride.
Can I Drink Alcohol with this medication?
It is safe to consume alcohol whilst taking Finasteride.
I have missed my dose. What should I do?
If you forget to take your Doxazosin on time, if your dose was due is less than 6 hours,
take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is more than 6 hours,
skip the missed one. Please, remember to take your next dose at the regular time.
Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.
I have accidentally taken too much medication.
Finasteride in overdose can increase your risk of side effects.
Symptoms of overdose can include: • Erectile dysfunction
• Reduced sex drive
If you believe you have taken an overdose of this medication, please seek an emergency assessment.
Are there any side effects?
Fortunately, most will not experience any side effects. However,
as with all medications, side effects can occur.
Common side-effects are: • Inability to get or
maintain an erection • Reduced sex drive
• Issues with ejeculation, such as reduced volume or no semen
Rarely, people may experience more concerning side effects.
If you experience any of the following, please consult with your doctor urgently:
• Depression and increased thoughts of suicide. o If you experience a dip in your mood or are
having thoughts of self harm, this could be a side effect of your medication.
• Finasteride can increase your risk for breast cancer
o Look out for any lumps, nipple discharge or pain on your chest
Allergic reactions are concerning as they may be life-threatening. Fortunately,
life-threatening allergic reactions are rare.
Those with serious allergic reactions should call emergency services for assistance. Symptoms of a
severe allergic reaction can include: • Swelling of the face, lips,
mouth, and throat • Difficulty breathing,
wheezing or chest tightness • Allergic skin rash
Of course, this list is not exhaustive. For a full list of side effects refer
to the drug information leaflet that comes with your medications.
I hope this video has supplied the answers you were looking for. Thank you for watching.