Finasteride 5mg

Finasteride 5mg — Uses and Benefits

Finasteride 5mg is prescribed for men with an enlarged prostate gland (benign prostatic hyperplasia or BPH) that is causing urinary symptoms.

WHAT THIS MEDICINE IS USED FOR

• Treating symptoms of an enlarged prostate such as difficulty urinating, weak urine flow, and frequent urination
• Reducing the risk of acute urinary retention in men with enlarged prostate
• Reducing the need for prostate-related surgery in some men

HOW IT WORKS

• It blocks an enzyme called 5-alpha reductase
• This enzyme converts testosterone into a more active hormone (DHT) that causes prostate growth
• By lowering DHT levels, it helps shrink the enlarged prostate gland over months of use

WHAT IT IS NOT USED FOR

• It is not used for prostate cancer treatment
• It is not a quick-relief medicine for sudden urinary blockage
• It is not meant for use in women or children
• The lower-dose form of this same salt is used for hair loss, but this 5mg strength is specifically meant for prostate conditions unless your doctor advises otherwise

How to Use Finasteride 5mg

HOW TO TAKE IT

• Take this medicine exactly as prescribed by your doctor, usually once a day
• It can be taken with or without food
• Swallow the tablet whole with water; do not crush or break it, especially if you are a woman handling the tablet
• Continue taking it regularly even if you do not notice immediate improvement, as benefits may take several months
• Do not stop the medicine without talking to your doctor

IF YOU MISS A DOSE

• Take the missed dose as soon as you remember
• If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed one and continue your normal schedule
• Do not take two doses together to make up for a missed one

STORAGE

• Store at room temperature, away from direct sunlight and moisture
• Keep the tablets in their original pack until ready to use
• Keep out of reach of children
• Women who are pregnant or may become pregnant should avoid handling broken or crushed tablets

Finasteride 5mg — Side Effects

COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Reduced sex drive
• Difficulty getting or maintaining an erection
• Decreased amount of semen released during sex

LESS COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Breast tenderness or enlargement
• Dizziness
• Weakness or tiredness
• Skin rash

SERIOUS SIDE EFFECTS — STOP AND SEE A DOCTOR IMMEDIATELY

• Swelling of lips, face, or tongue, or difficulty breathing (allergic reaction)
• Lumps, pain, or discharge from the breast
• Testicular pain that is severe or persistent
• Signs of depression or unusual mood changes

This is not a complete list. Report any unusual or persistent symptom to your doctor or pharmacist.

Finasteride 5mg — Safety Information and Precautions

This medicine is available only with a valid doctor's prescription in India.

DO NOT TAKE THIS MEDICINE IF YOU

• Are a woman, especially if pregnant or breastfeeding
• Are allergic to finasteride or any ingredient in the tablet
• Are a child or adolescent

TELL YOUR DOCTOR BEFORE STARTING IF YOU

• Have liver disease
• Have a history of breast lumps or breast cancer
• Are planning to have a PSA (prostate-specific antigen) blood test, as this medicine can lower PSA levels
• Have any urinary symptoms that seem unusual or sudden

MEDICINES THAT CAN INTERACT

• Other medicines used for prostate or hormone-related conditions
• Inform your doctor about all medicines, supplements, and herbal products you are taking to avoid interactions

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Can women take this medicine?

No, this medicine is not meant for women and pregnant women should not even touch broken or crushed tablets.

How long does it take to show results?

It usually takes three to six months of regular use to notice improvement in urinary symptoms.

Will this medicine affect my PSA test results?

• Yes, it can lower PSA levels, so inform your doctor that you are taking this medicine before any PSA blood test.
• Doctor ya pharmacist se salah lein.