Finpecia 1mg (Finasteride)

Finpecia 1mg is used to treat hair loss in men. Finpecia 1mg contains finasteride, a 5-alpha reductase inhibitor medicine. Finasteride works by decreasing levels of a hormone called dihydrotestosterone (DHT). It is useful in reducing hair loss and stimulating hair growth. This may help with male pattern baldness (receding hairline and thinning of the hair on the top of the head). This condition is also known as androgenic alopecia. Finpecia is also used to treat benign prostatic hyperplasia (enlarged prostate gland). This medicine is not meant for use in women and children.

How does it Work?

Finpecia 1mg contains the active ingredient finasteride. It works by reducing your levels of DHT at the hair follicles. DHT is an androgen — a hormone that contributes to the development of ‘male’ characteristics. It is responsible for the growth of hair. But high levels of DHT activity at your hair follicles can cause hair loss. DHT, along with other factors (e.g., genetics), can make men lose their hair faster and even before they reach old age. Finpecia 1mg blocks the effects of DHT — thus reducing hair loss.

Uses

Male Pattern Baldness (Androgenic Alopecia)

A receding hairline or bald spot on the scalp caused by certain male sex hormones

Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH):

A benign condition in which the prostate gland is larger than usual. Men with this BPH may have problems with urination. Benign means it’s not cancer.

Recommended Dose

Finpecia 1mg tablets are to be taken orally with or without food. Swallow it as a whole. The dose and frequency of the medicine depends on your condition. For the best results, take the medicine at the same time every day. For balding adults, the most commonly recommended dosage is 1mg per day. Take it as directed by a doctor.

Missed Dose

If you forget a dose, skip the missed dose altogether. Continue your usual dosing schedule. Do not take an extra dose to compensate for a missed one.

Overdose

Finpecia 1mg needs to be used at the right dosage. Only then it can produce the desired results. Taking too much of any medication can harm your health and lead to serious side effects. Talk to your doctor if you suspect an overdose.

Side Effects

Here are some possible side effects of Finpecia 1mg pills:

• lack of interest in having sexual activity
• problems with penile erection
• problems with ejaculation
• skin rash

Most side effects are mild, may not require any medical attention and disappear over time.

In rare cases, finasteride can lead to more severe symptoms:

Any lumps, pain, swelling, and changes to the skin on the chest

low mood

allergic reaction

Consult your doctor if the side effects are severe or persistent.

Safety Advise

Finpecia 1mg is generally safe when taken as prescribed.

 

It is important to follow your doctor’s instructions before using a drug. Let your doctor know if you have any of the following:

• bladder problems
• liver problems
• or any other medical conditions
• Do not take the medicine if you’re intolerant to finasteride.
• Learn about potential drug interactions including the ones listed above.
• Call your doctor if any side effects bother you.
• In rare cases, this medicine may increase your risk of developing prostate cancer or breast cancer (in males). Discuss with your doctor if you have concerns about the risk.
• Most men aged 18 years or above can take finasteride.
• It’s not recommended for women or children.
• Do not take Finpecia 1mg more often than prescribed. Not taking more than your recommended dose can protect you against side effects.

Medical Interactions

Finpecia 1mg may interact with other drugs. This may change the way this drug works and increase the risk of side effects. Tell your pharmacist or doctor if you are taking:

• prescription drugs
• over-the-counter (OTC) medications
• vitamins
• herbs or any other supplement

Finpecia 1mg may interact with:

• calcium channel blockers e.g., amlodipine, benidipine or felodipine
• high blood pressure medicines like cilnidipine or α-blockers
• pain management medications like acetaminophen, acetylsalicylic acid or analgesics
• beta blockers
• seizure medications such as anticonvulsants
• anxiety medicines like benzodiazepines

Storage

• Store the medicine at room temperature.
• Do not leave the pills in warm or humid places. Avoid storing them in the bathroom cabinet or near a sink. Heat, air, and steam can spoil the medicine.
• Do not repack the medicine. Store it in the original packaging until you consume it.
• Place the medicines in a locked cabinet where children and pets cannot reach.
• Do not take medicines that have expired. Even if you have bought it recently, check the label. If you’ve taken expired pills by mistake, inform your doctor.
• Discard any pills that have gone past their expiry date. Follow your local regulations and laws for their safe disposal.

References

1. Can I take Finpecia 1mg during pregnancy?

   Finpecia 1mg tablets are unsafe for women during pregnancy. This medicine is not meant for women and children.

2. Can I drive while taking Finpecia 1mg tablets?

   Finpecia 1mg does not usually interfere with your ability to drive.

3. Can I drink alcohol while taking Finpecia 1mg tablets?

   More clinical studies are needed to confirm if it is safe to consume alcohol with Finpecia 1mg tablets. Please talk to your doctor.

4. Are Finpecia 1mg tablets safe for the liver or kidney?

   Finpecia is generally safe to use in patients who have kidney disease. More data is required to understand its use in patients with liver problems. Use caution and consult with a doctor if you have any medical conditions.

5. What are the side effects of Finpecia 1mg?

   Finpecia 1mg may cause mild side effects such as low libido, erectile and ejaculation problems. Some people may also experience allergic reactions like itching, rashes, or facial swelling. Contact a doctor immediately if you experience these symptoms.

6. What’s the best dosage of Finpecia 1mg for me?

   The dosage depends on factors such as your age, current condition, severity, and how your body responds to the medication. Consult with your doctor for the appropriate dose.

7. How long does Finpecia 1mg take to work?

   For hair loss, you may see some improvement within 3 to 6 months of consistent use.

8. Should I be aware of any long-term side effects?

   Finpecia 1mg is generally safe for long-term use, but it should be taken under medical supervision to monitor any potential long-term effects.

9. Should I eat or drink while taking finasteride? Or, should I take it on an empty stomach?

   You can take Finpecia 1mg with or without food. There are no specific dietary restrictions associated with its use

References

• McClellan KJ, Markham A. Finasteride: a review of its use in male pattern hair loss. Drugs. 1999 Jan;57(1):111-26. doi: 10.2165/00003495-199957010-00014. PMID: 9951956. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/9951956/
• Tacklind J, Fink HA, Macdonald R, Rutks I, Wilt TJ. Finasteride for benign prostatic hyperplasia. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2010 Oct 6;2010(10):CD006015. doi: 10.1002/14651858.CD006015.pub3. PMID: 20927745; PMCID: PMC8908761. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20927745/
• Motofei IG, Rowland DL, Tampa M, Sarbu MI, Mitran MI, Mitran CI, Stoian AP, Diaconu CC, Paunica S, Georgescu SR. Finasteride and androgenic alopecia; from therapeutic options to medical implications. J Dermatolog Treat. 2020 Jun;31(4):415-421. doi: 10.1080/09546634.2019.1595507. Epub 2019 Apr 2. PMID: 30897009. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30897009/
• Hirshburg JM, Kelsey PA, Therrien CA, Gavino AC, Reichenberg JS. Adverse Effects and Safety of 5-alpha Reductase Inhibitors (Finasteride, Dutasteride): A Systematic Review. J Clin Aesthet Dermatol. 2016 Jul;9(7):56-62. Epub 2016 Jul 1. PMID: 27672412; PMCID: PMC5023004. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5023004/#:~:text=The%20only%20finasteride%2Dassociated%20side,in%20former%20users%20of%20finasteride.
• Fertig RM, Gamret AC, Darwin E, Gaudi S. Sexual side effects of 5-α-reductase inhibitors finasteride and dutasteride: A comprehensive review. Dermatol Online J. 2017 Nov 11;23(11):13030/qt24k8q743. PMID: 29447628. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29447628/