Finasteride (Generic for Propecia®/Proscar®) Uses, Dosage, and Safety

What Finasteride Is and How It Works

Finasteride is a 5‑alpha‑reductase inhibitor used for male pattern hair loss and benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). Many people buy finasteride online to access Canadian pricing on 1 mg and 5 mg tablets. The 1 mg strength is used for androgenetic alopecia. The 5 mg strength is used for BPH. Tablets are taken by mouth once daily.

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Finasteride blocks the type II 5‑alpha‑reductase enzyme, which converts testosterone to dihydrotestosterone (DHT). Lowering scalp DHT helps slow hair follicle miniaturization and supports hair regrowth over time. In the prostate, reduced DHT helps shrink tissue volume, which can improve urinary symptoms and decrease the risk of acute urinary retention.

For hair loss, adults typically use 1 mg once daily. For BPH, 5 mg once daily is standard. Continuous daily dosing is needed to maintain benefits. Stopping therapy usually leads to reversal of effects within months.

Dosage and Usage

• Hair loss (androgenetic alopecia): 1 mg tablet by mouth once daily, with or without food.
• BPH: 5 mg tablet by mouth once daily, with or without food.
• Swallow tablets whole. Do not crush or split. Women who are pregnant or may become pregnant should not handle crushed or broken tablets.
• Take at the same time each day to support adherence.
• Missed dose: take when remembered unless it is close to the next dose. Do not double up.
• Expect several months of consistent use before assessing hair density changes or urinary improvements.
• PSA: finasteride lowers prostate-specific antigen (PSA) by about 50% after 6 months. Clinicians may adjust PSA interpretation accordingly.

• Storage: store at 20–25 °C (68–77 °F). Short excursions 15–30 °C (59–86 °F) are acceptable.
• Keep tablets in the original, tightly closed container. Protect from moisture.
• Travel: carry in your hand luggage in a labeled container with your prescription.
• Avoid heat, direct sun, and humidity (bathrooms). Do not freeze.
• Keep out of reach of children and pets.

Benefits and Savings

Finasteride supports hair retention and regrowth in men with male pattern hair loss. Many users see slower shedding, thicker strands, and increased hair counts after steady use. For BPH, finasteride can shrink prostate volume, improve urinary flow, and reduce the need for surgery over time. Once‑daily oral dosing is simple, and generic finasteride is widely available.

Ordering from Canada often means notable savings. Typical customers see 60–80% lower costs versus common US prices. You can compare the finasteride price by strength and quantity, then select the option that fits your plan. Multi‑month supplies can lower the per‑month finasteride cost, and bulk promotions may further reduce pricing. Reorder reminders help you stay on track.

Side Effects and Safety

• Decreased libido
• Erectile dysfunction
• Ejaculation disorder or decreased semen volume
• Gynecomastia (breast tenderness or enlargement)
• Rash or pruritus
• Dizziness or weakness
• Mood changes, including low mood
• Testicular discomfort

Serious effects are uncommon but can include allergic reactions, breast lumps or nipple discharge, persistent sexual dysfunction, depression, or suicidal thoughts. A small number of cases of male breast cancer have been reported. Finasteride may affect fertility parameters in some men; changes are often reversible after stopping. Finasteride lowers PSA readings; clinicians consider this when screening for prostate cancer. Discuss risks and benefits with a healthcare professional, especially if you have liver disease, a history of depression, or breast changes.

Onset Time

Hair: shedding often stabilizes first. Visible thickening and hair count improvements usually emerge after 3–6 months, with continued gains through 12 months. Use with patience and consistency. If stopped, effects tend to fade within several months.

BPH: urinary symptom relief may appear within 1–3 months. Prostate volume reduction and PSA changes are more evident by 6 months. Some men use finasteride long term to maintain improvements.

Compare With Alternatives

Brand vs generic: finasteride tablets contain the same active ingredient as the brands. Some prefer brand labelling for consistency, while many choose generic finasteride for cost savings. If brand is desired for hair loss, see Propecia®.

Dutasteride: another 5‑alpha‑reductase inhibitor that blocks both type I and II enzymes. It is used for BPH and, off‑label in some regions, for hair loss. It may offer stronger DHT suppression but can carry similar sexual side effects. Availability and approvals differ by country.

Minoxidil: a topical vasodilator used for scalp application. It can pair with finasteride for a dual approach to hair loss. Response varies by person and adherence.

BPH symptom alternatives: alpha‑blockers provide faster relief of urinary symptoms. Some men also consider daily tadalafil; brand reference is Cialis®. These options can be combined with finasteride in select cases under medical guidance.

Combination Therapy

• Topical minoxidil plus finasteride for male pattern hair loss.
• Alpha‑blocker (e.g., tamsulosin) plus finasteride for BPH to address symptoms and prostate size.
• Daily low‑dose tadalafil plus finasteride in men with lower urinary tract symptoms and erectile concerns, as clinically appropriate.
• Avoid combining with other 5‑alpha‑reductase inhibitors unless directed.

Patient Suitability and Cost-Saving Tips

Finasteride is intended for adult men. The 1 mg strength targets androgenetic alopecia. The 5 mg strength targets BPH. It is not approved for women or children. Women who are pregnant or may become pregnant should avoid handling crushed or broken tablets due to potential risk to a male fetus. People with significant liver impairment should be assessed carefully before use.

Men with a history of breast cancer, unexplained breast changes, severe depression, or prior allergic reaction to finasteride require individualized evaluation. Those undergoing prostate cancer screening should inform clinicians that finasteride lowers PSA, often by about half after 6 months.

To save on generic finasteride, compare finasteride 1 mg tablets and finasteride 5 mg tablets across pack sizes. A 90‑day supply can reduce the per‑month finasteride cost. Ask about bulk promotions when you place your order. Set gentle reorder reminders so you do not run out. If you need brand‑name labeling for insurance or personal reasons, request it on your finasteride prescription before uploading.

Authoritative Sources

Merck Propecia product information

Health Canada Drug Product Database – finasteride

FDA Prescribing Information – Propecia (finasteride)

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This material is educational and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always speak with a qualified healthcare provider about medications, side effects, and your personal care.