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finasteride
Propecia, Proscar

Pregnancy Risk Category X

How supplied
Tablets:
1 mg, 5 mg

Action
Competitively inhibits corticosteroid 5 alpha-reductase, an enzyme responsible for formation of potent androgen 5 alpha-dihydrotestosterone (DHT) from testosterone. Because DHT influences development of the prostate gland, decreasing levels of this hormone in adult men should relieve the symptoms associated with BPH. In male pattern balding, the balding scalp contains miniaturized hair follicles and increased amounts of DHT. Finasteride decreases scalp and serum DHT levels in such cases.

Indications & dosage
Propecia

Male pattern hair loss (androgenetic alopecia) in men only--

Adults:
1 mg P.O. daily.
Proscar

Symptomatic BPH to improve symptoms and reduce risk of acute urine retention and need for surgery, including transurethral resection of prostate and prostatectomy--

Adults:
5 mg P.O. daily.

Adverse reactions
GU:
decreased libido, impotence, decreased volume of ejaculate.

Interactions
None significant.

Effects on diagnostic tests
None reported.

Contraindications
Contraindicated in patients with hypersensitivity to drug. Although drug isn't used in women or children, manufacturer indicates pregnancy as a contraindication.

Nursing considerations

Patient teaching

*Liquid contains alcohol. **May contain tartrazine.  †Canada  ‡Australia  §U.K.  OTCOver the counter
Reactions may be common, uncommon, life-threatening, or COMMON AND LIFE-THREATENING

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