Main Use | Active Ingredient | Marketed Name |
Hair loss | Finasteride | Finax |
Uses
Finax (Finasteride) is a synthetic medication that is indicated for the treatment of male pattern baldness (MPB). The active ingredient in this drug is also prescribed to treat urination problems caused by an enlarged prostate gland (BPH or benign prostatic hyperplasia).
When used as a hair loss treatment, this medication prevents DHT (dihydrotestosterone) from being formed in the body. DHT is a type of androgen hormone which may cause damage to the hair follicles. Reducing the amount of this hormone can help to promote the growth of new hair while also preventing further hair loss.
Dosage and Administration
Finax (Finasteride) comes as tablets, which contain 1mg of the active ingredient. You will need to visit your doctor before taking this drug, so that you can be told the correct amount to take. Men who are treating androgenic alopecia (another name for male pattern hair loss) are often instructed to take a dosage consisting of 1mg per day. Bear in mind that you may need to take this drug for 3 to 6 months before results are noticed (such as a slowing down of the balding process or new hair growth). Cessation of treatment will result in any hair that has been regrown being lost.
Side effects
Treatment with Finax (Finasteride) can lead to side effects, and you should discuss the risk of this with your doctor prior to the beginning of treatment. Some examples of side effects are listed here:
It is generally considered necessary for patients to report any side effects that occur to their doctor. Seek medical attention straight away if you notice lumps on the breast, breast pain, a discharge from the nipples or any other symptoms of a severe reaction.
Precautions
This medicine is only prescribed to adult men, and is never used in women or children. In addition to this, women who are pregnant should never handle the tablets, as there is a possibility of the active ingredient being absorbed through the skin, which could result in damage to the unborn baby.
Breast cancer in men who have taken this medication has occurred in the past (however, it is not considered to be common).
Seek immediate emergency medical attention if you suffer an allergic reaction. Symptoms to watch for, which may be indicative of a reaction, include skin rashes, hives, swelling of the face or limbs, trouble breathing, and trouble swallowing.
Always use Finax (Finasteride) as you have been prescribed by your doctor. Never self-medicate or change your dosage without first consulting your doctor. The correct dosage can vary depending on your health, medical history, and the severity of the condition being treated.
This medication may not be safe for all patients. Before you begin using it always disclose the following to your doctor: