Warning: Risks Associated with Finasteride
Finasteride is a 5-alpha-reductase inhibitor used to treat male pattern hair loss (androgenetic alopecia) by reducing levels of dihydrotestosterone (DHT)—a hormone that contributes to hair thinning. While effective, finasteride can carry risks and side effects that should be fully discussed with your healthcare provider before starting treatment.
What is Finasteride Used For?
Finasteride is commonly used for:
- Male pattern hair loss (androgenetic alopecia): Helps slow hair loss and promote regrowth in men.
- Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH): Used in higher doses to shrink enlarged prostates in men.
- Off-label hair loss treatment in women: Occasionally used in postmenopausal women, under medical supervision.
Limitations of Use
- Finasteride does not cure hair loss—continued use is necessary to maintain results.
- Hair loss may resume within 3–6 months after stopping the medication.
- Finasteride is not approved for use in women of childbearing potential.
- Not effective for all types of hair loss.
Who Should Not Use Finasteride?
Do not use finasteride if you:
- Are pregnant or may become pregnant (Finasteride can cause birth defects in male fetuses; do not handle crushed or broken tablets if pregnant).
- Have liver disease or impaired liver function.
- Are allergic to finasteride or any of its components.
- Are under 18 years of age.
How to Use Finasteride
Finasteride is taken orally once daily or used as a topical compound, depending on your treatment plan.
- Oral Finasteride (typically 1 mg/day for hair loss)
- Topical Finasteride is applied directly to the scalp—follow your provider’s instructions carefully.
Do not exceed the recommended dose. It may take 3 to 6 months to see noticeable results.
What to Discuss with Your Provider Before Using Finasteride
Medication Interactions:
- Finasteride may interact with other prostate or hormone-related medications.
- If using topical corticosteroids or other hair loss treatments, discuss with your provider.
Medical Conditions to Disclose:
- Liver disease
- Prostate issues
- Depression or mental health concerns
- History of sexual dysfunction
- Infertility or plans for fertility in the near future
Serious Side Effects
Call 911 or seek immediate medical help if you experience:
- Chest pain
- Swelling of lips, face, or tongue (possible allergic reaction)
- Depression, suicidal thoughts, or severe mood changes
- Breast lumps, pain, or nipple discharge
Common Side Effects
Some users may experience:
- Reduced sex drive
- Erectile dysfunction
- Decreased semen volume
- Breast tenderness or enlargement
- Rash or itching (especially with topical use)
These effects may be reversible after stopping the medication, but in rare cases, symptoms may persist.
Use in Special Populations
- Women who are or may become pregnant should not use or handle finasteride.
- Men trying to conceive should consult their provider—finasteride may impact sperm quality.
- Older adults may experience greater sensitivity to side effects.
Alcohol and Finasteride
There is no known direct interaction between alcohol and finasteride, but excessive alcohol consumption may worsen sexual side effects or mood-related symptoms.
Monitoring and Follow-Ups
Your provider may monitor:
- Hair growth progress
- Sexual health and mood
- Prostate-specific antigen (PSA) levels if used long-term
Always report new or worsening symptoms during follow-ups.
Stopping Finasteride Treatment
Hair regrowth results may gradually reverse within 3 to 6 months after discontinuing treatment. Speak with your provider before stopping, and ask about transition strategies if needed.
Reporting Side Effects
If you experience any side effects, contact your healthcare provider or report to the FDA MedWatch program at 1-800-FDA-1088 or visit www.fda.gov/medwatch.
