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Finasteride

Brand: Proscar, Propecia

5-alpha reductase inhibitorUsed for: Enlarged prostate, hair lossOther High-Yield

No boxed warning on the current FDA label.

Caution
Pregnant women should not handle crushed or broken tablets: absorbed drug can harm a male fetus; lowers PSA by about half.
Pregnancy
Contraindicated in pregnancy; pregnant women should not handle crushed or broken tablets.

Common side effects

  • Decreased libido
  • Erectile dysfunction
  • Decreased ejaculate volume
  • Breast tenderness

Key interactions

  • Lowers PSA test values (note for screening)

Counseling points

  • May take months to see full effect
  • Pregnant women should not handle crushed tablets
  • Report breast lumps or tenderness
  • Sexual side effects may persist for some
  • Tell providers it lowers PSA levels
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